36 www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za RACA Journal I January 2026
NEW REFRIGERANTS voices transition must be economically and technically viable. The next 10 – 15 years will be defined by a gradual move from HFCs to blends like R448A, R449A, R452A and R513A, many of which offer similar performance with lower GWP and can be retrofitted into existing systems.
Natural refrigerants – such as CO₂( R744), propane( R290) and ammonia( R717) – will play a growing role, particularly in newbuild applications. However, challenges such as flammability, toxicity and system pressure mean they are not suitable for all applications today. As equipment becomes more widely available and regulations evolve, we can expect broader adoption across commercial and industrial sectors.
Meanwhile, R32 is gaining traction in air conditioning, replacing R410A in new units. Though mildly flammable, its GWP of 675 makes it a viable interim solution under current European and South African import caps.
The refrigerants landscape is increasingly shaped by global trends. European manufacturers are already phasing out R410A in favour of R32 and R290. As global equipment specs shift, local markets like South Africa must adapt. This presents both a challenge and an opportunity: stay ahead of the curve or risk falling behind on compliance and sustainability targets.
At A-Gas, we are committed to reducing our carbon emissions by 50 % by 2028, with a net-zero goal by 2035. But we can ' t do this alone.
Refrigerants, while invisible to the naked eye, are among the most potent greenhouse gases known. Our industry has both the tools and the responsibility to act. Whether you’ re a contractor, system designer, facilities manager or OEM, your role in responsible refrigerant management is now mission-critical.
FINAL THOUGHT No kilogram of refrigerant should ever be released into the atmosphere. Every leak avoided, every cylinder properly returned, every kilogram recovered, matters.
The transition is already underway. Now, it’ s about accelerating momentum. RACA
“ Unlike disposable cylinders – still widely used in South Africa – returnable cylinders reduce the risk of emissions, eliminate landfill waste and are fully trackable through the recovery process.”
36 www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za RACA Journal I January 2026