Understanding the Role of Refrigerants in ACs

Air conditioners have become an essential part of Indian homes and offices. They help us survive extreme summer heat and make work or relaxation more comfortable. But while most people focus on tonnage, star ratings, or design when buying an AC, few stop to think about what actually makes it cool the air, the refrigerant.

The refrigerant is a chemical fluid that flows inside the AC’s coils. It absorbs heat from your room and releases it outside. This cycle keeps your space cool and comfortable in just minutes. Without it, your AC is simply a box with a fan.

Over the years, refrigerants have evolved. Older options were powerful at cooling but harmful to the environment. They damaged the ozone layer and contributed to climate change. Now, newer eco-friendly refrigerants deliver the same cooling, sometimes better while reducing environmental harm.

Whether you own a window ac 1.5 ton or a split system, the refrigerant inside plays a major role in cooling efficiency and environmental impact. Choosing the right one can save you money, lower your electricity bills, and help the planet at the same time.

Also read: AC with Active Dehumidifier. 

What Are AC Refrigerants & How They Work

Refrigerants are not just ordinary liquids. They are specially designed chemicals that can switch between liquid and gas at low temperatures. This ability allows them to absorb heat from inside your home and release it outside.

Here’s the basic process your AC follows:

1. Evaporation stage – The refrigerant starts as a cold, low-pressure liquid in the indoor coil. As warm air passes over it, the refrigerant absorbs heat and evaporates into a gas.

2. Compression stage – The AC’s compressor squeezes this gas, increasing its pressure and temperature.

3. Condensation stage – The hot, high-pressure gas moves to the outdoor coil. A fan blows outdoor air over the coil, cooling the gas back into a liquid as it releases heat outside.

4. Expansion stage – The refrigerant passes through an expansion valve, dropping its pressure and temperature, ready to start the cycle again.

This process happens continuously whenever your AC is on. The faster and more efficiently it works, the quicker your room cools.

 Related: Benefits of Using ACs with Dust Filters. 

From compact window ac 1 ton models to large capacity systems, refrigerant technology determines performance. A better refrigerant means faster cooling, lower electricity consumption, and a smaller environmental footprint.

Common AC Refrigerant Types in India

India’s AC market currently uses three main refrigerants R22, R410A, and R32. Each has different properties, environmental impacts, and performance levels.

R22 (HCFC-22)

R22 was once the most common AC refrigerant in India. It delivers excellent cooling and works in almost all climates. But it has a serious drawback — a high ozone depletion potential (ODP). Global regulations have banned its use in new ACs.

If you own an older AC with R22, servicing is getting harder. Parts and refrigerant refills are becoming expensive because production is being phased out.

R410A

R410A became the next big alternative after R22. It has zero ODP, which means it doesn’t damage the ozone layer. Cooling performance is good, and it works well in different temperatures.

However, R410A’s global warming potential (GWP) is still high, 2088. This means it traps much more heat in the atmosphere compared to newer options. Countries are now moving towards low-GWP refrigerants.

R32

R32 is currently the best option for most Indian buyers. It has a low GWP of just 675, about one-third of R410A. It also transfers heat more efficiently, meaning your AC consumes less electricity for the same cooling output.

R32 is also easier to recycle and requires less refrigerant volume for the same job, lowering costs in the long run.

If you’re looking for the best air conditioner 1.5 ton, choose one with R32 refrigerant for better efficiency and lower environmental impact.

Suggested read:  Top Voltas ACs with Anti-Dust Filters. 

R410A vs R32 – Detailed Comparison Table

From the table, it’s clear that while R410A is safe for the ozone, R32 goes further by lowering GWP and improving efficiency.

For most households, this means two big benefits: lower electricity bills and a greener choice that supports future environmental standards.

Eco-Friendly Benefits of R32 Refrigerant ACs

Switching to an R32 refrigerant AC offers more than just cooling. It makes a difference to your energy bills and the planet.

Lower Carbon Footprint

With a GWP of 675, R32 contributes less to global warming compared to older refrigerants. Choosing it over R410A can significantly reduce your household’s carbon footprint over the years.

Higher Energy Efficiency

Because R32 transfers heat better, your AC doesn’t need to work as hard. This means less compressor run time, reduced electricity use, and lower power bills, especially during peak summer months.

Better Long-Term Value

Even if an R32 AC costs slightly more upfront, the savings on electricity bills often make up for it within a couple of seasons.

Future-Ready Choice

Many countries have already adopted R32 as a standard. In India, major brands like Voltas have R32 models across their product lines.

Also explore:  Tips to Improve Indoor Air Quality Using ACs

When comparing models, check which is the best air conditioner in India for both performance and eco-friendliness.

Refrigerant Safety Tips

Refrigerants are safe inside a sealed AC system, but accidents can happen if handled incorrectly. Follow these simple tips:

• Never try to refill refrigerant yourself – this is a technical job for certified professionals.

• Insist on branded, BIS-approved ACs – this ensures refrigerants meet safety standards.

• Ask for proper disposal of old refrigerants – they must be recovered and recycled to prevent environmental harm.

• Watch for leaks – if your AC stops cooling suddenly, call a technician. Refrigerant leaks can reduce cooling efficiency and increase electricity use.

Even a  low price ac should use safe and compliant refrigerants. Choosing a cheaper, unsafe refill may damage your AC and void its warranty. 

Must read: Anti-Dust Filters in Voltas Products. 

How to Choose the Right AC Based on Refrigerant

Here’s a step-by-step way to choose:

1. Decide your priorities – If eco-friendliness is important, go for R32.

2. Consider electricity costs – R32 offers better efficiency, so it’s better for high-usage households.

3. Look at availability – Check that your local service centres handle R32 servicing.

4. Think about the future – With R22 gone and R410A on its way out, R32 ensures parts and refills remain available for years.

Browse the ac range to find models with the latest refrigerant technology. A good refrigerant choice today means fewer headaches tomorrow.

Real-Life Example: Why Refrigerant Choice Matters

Imagine two neighbours in Delhi, one buys an R410A AC, and the other buys an R32 model. Both have similar tonnage and star rating.

After one year:

• The R32 user’s electricity bill is about 8–10% lower.

• Both enjoy good cooling, but the R32 model reaches set temperature faster.

After five years:

• The R410A AC may require costlier maintenance.

• The R32 AC remains cheaper to run and service, and it’s aligned with current environmental rules.

Conclusion

Refrigerants are the unseen hero of your air conditioner. They dictate how well your AC cools, how much electricity it uses, and how much impact it has on the planet.

India is moving towards eco-friendly refrigerants like R32 because they offer high efficiency and low GWP. While R410A is still available, R32 is clearly the better choice for performance, cost savings, and environmental responsibility.

Upgrade to a Voltas R32 AC today for powerful cooling and a cleaner planet.