R456a refrigerant introduction and background information

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Compatible with R456a - what does it mean:

  • All our R134a air conditioning service units (except the AC790PRO) are compatible with R456a
  • The equipment is compatible with both refrigerants R134a and R456a. However, it is recommended not to mix the refrigerants.
  • No hardware changes needed but requires mandatory software update xxx.045.047

About R456a:

  • R456a is an alternative to R134a on existing mobile air-conditioning systems
  • R456a refrigerant is a non-flammable near-azeotropic blend

Why R456a:

  • R134a has been banned for use in new vehicles in Europe since 2014
  • R456a has a GWP of 626, representing a significant reduction in CO2-equivalent footprint when compared to R134a which has a GWP of 1430
  • The import of R134a into the EU is decreasing year over year due to the F-Gas Regulation, which aims to phase down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) to reduce their environmental impact
  • This gradual year-on-year reduction will soon make R134a cost-prohibitive