HFC Phase-Down? We’ve Got You Covered.
Find answers to common questions about HFCs, HFOs, retrofits, regulations, and ordering.
HFCs (Hydrofluorocarbons) are the current generation of refrigerants. They have zero ozone depletion potential but high global warming potential (GWP). They're being phased down under global agreements.
HFOs (Hydrofluoroolefins) are next-generation refrigerants. They have ultra-low GWP (often below 10) and break down faster in the atmosphere. Many HFOs are mildly flammable (A2L classification) and are approved as replacements for high-GWP HFCs.
HFCs have high global warming potential (GWP) — some thousands of times more potent than CO2. Under the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol and regulations like the US AIM Act and EU F-Gas, HFC production and consumption are being gradually phased down to reduce their climate impact.
GWP stands for Global Warming Potential. It measures how much heat a greenhouse gas traps in the atmosphere compared to CO2 over a specific period (usually 100 years). CO2 has a GWP of 1. High-GWP refrigerants like R-404A have GWP around 3,900. Low-GWP HFOs like R-1234yf have GWP below 1.
A2L is a safety classification for mildly flammable refrigerants. Many HFOs fall into this category.
A means low toxicity
2L means lower flammability (harder to ignite, burns slowly)
A2L refrigerants are safe when handled properly but require specific training, equipment, and safety practices compared to non-flammable A1 refrigerants.
Most HFCs are still available but under production phase-downs. Common HFCs we stock include:
R-134a (automotive, medium-temp refrigeration)
R-410A (residential and light commercial AC)
R-404A (commercial refrigeration, freezers)
R-407C (retrofit applications)
R-507A (low-temperature refrigeration)
Availability remains good, but prices may fluctuate as production decreases.
Yes. R-410A is scheduled for phasedown under the AIM Act. New equipment using R-410A is being replaced by lower-GWP alternatives like R-32 and R-454B. However, R-410A will remain available for servicing existing equipment for years to come, though prices may rise as supply decreases.
Yes. R-134a remains widely available and is still used in automotive AC, medium-temperature refrigeration, and many existing systems. However, new automotive systems have transitioned to R-1234yf, and R-134a is under phasedown. We maintain good stock of R-134a in various cylinder sizes.
We stock a full range of HFO refrigerants, including:
R-1234yf — Automotive AC, replacement for R-134a
R-32 — Residential and commercial AC
R-1234ze — Chillers and commercial refrigeration
R-448A / R-449A — Commercial refrigeration, R-404A replacement
R-452A — Low-temperature refrigeration
R-454B — Residential AC, R-410A replacement
We welcome orders of all sizes:
Single cylinders — Available for most products
Multiple cylinders — No minimum for common gases
Pallet quantities — Discounted pricing
Bulk / Container loads — Best pricing, contact us for quotes
If you need just one cylinder, we're happy to help. If you need a full container, we're ready for that too.
Yes. Pricing improves with quantity:
Larger cylinder quantities
Full pallets
Multiple pallets
Container loads
Contact us for a customized quote based on your volume.
Yes. Once your order ships, we provide tracking information so you can monitor your delivery in real time.
Yes, when handled properly. Most HFOs are classified as A2L (mildly flammable). They require:
Proper training for technicians
Specific handling equipment
Ventilation during installation
Awareness of local codes and regulations
We provide safety guides and support for customers transitioning to HFOs.
Some do. Others require system modifications.
R-1234yf is a direct replacement for R-134a in new automotive systems (but not a drop-in for existing systems without modification).
R-448A / R-449A are designed as direct replacements for R-404A and R-507A in commercial refrigeration.
R-32 requires equipment designed for its pressure and A2L classification.
R-454B is designed for new AC equipment, not retrofits.
Always check compatibility before switching refrigerants.
R-22 is an HCFC, not an HFC. Direct replacement is not possible without modifications. Common R-22 replacements include:
R-407C (HFC) — Requires oil change, works in some systems
R-422B / R-422D (HFC blends) — Drop-in replacements with mineral oil compatibility
R-438A (HFC) — Another drop-in option
We recommend consulting a technician for R-22 retrofits.
The most common HFO replacements for R-404A are:
R-448A — Low GWP, efficient, widely used in supermarkets
R-449A — Similar to R-448A, good for commercial refrigeration
R-452A — For low-temperature applications
These typically require an oil change (to POE if not already used) and may need expansion valve adjustments.
Often, yes. Most HFCs and HFOs use POE (polyolester) oil. If your system currently uses mineral oil (common with older refrigerants like R-22), you'll need to retrofit to POE. Some drop-in blends are designed to work with mineral oil, but performance may vary.
The American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act is US legislation that authorizes the phasedown of HFC production and consumption. It aligns with the Kigali Amendment and sets declining GWP reduction targets through 2036. The EPA implements the act, including restrictions on certain high-GWP refrigerants.
Under the AIM Act (US):
2020-2023: 10% reduction from baseline
2024-2028: 40% reduction
2029-2033: 70% reduction
2034-2035: 80% reduction
2036+: 85% reduction
Specific refrigerant bans also apply. Check our [Regulations Page] for current details.
Lab-tested purity. Massive inventory. Fast worldwide shipping. Fair pricing. Simple.
The Kigali Amendment is an international agreement to phase down HFCs under the Montreal Protocol. Over 140 countries have ratified it, committing to reduce HFC production and consumption by 80-85% over the next few decades.
You can:
Use our [Get a Quote] form
Email us at [sales@fluoradogas.com]
Visit Contact us Page.
Please include the gases you need, quantities, and delivery location for fastest response.
Yes. We ship to 40+ countries worldwide. We handle all export documentation, customs clearance support, and arrange shipping via air, sea, or land based on your needs.
