Heatcraft Launches A2L Refrigeration Equipment 

Heatcraft Dual-Refrigerant Systems 

The refrigeration industry is shifting to lower-GWP refrigerants, and Heatcraft is making the transition seamless with our new dual-refrigerant systems. These units support both A1 (HFC) and A2L (HFO) refrigerants, giving customers flexibility to use their preferred refrigerant today while preparing for future regulations and affording maximum flexibility for today’s regulations.

Our approach reduces inventory complexity for distributors, simplifies the transition for contractors and ensures businesses stay compliant without major upfront costs. Industry-leading safety measures and familiar installation processes make Heatcraft’s UL listed dual-refrigerant units your future-proof refrigeration solution without disruption.

Dual-Refrigerant Systems FAQ

1. Why is Heatcraft offering dual-refrigerant systems?

Heatcraft designed dual-refrigerant systems (HFC-A1 and HFO-A2L) to make refrigerant transitions easier for contractors, wholesalers and OEMs. This approach future-proofs customers against regulation changes while reducing inventory complexity and costs under today’s regulations.

2. Are dual-refrigerant systems overly complex and difficult to modify?

No. Our systems require only minor, well-documented modifications to switch from HFC-A1 to HFO-A2L. Single-refrigerant units, on the other hand, force full system replacements when HFCs phase out, or when you trigger “New” under today’s regulation.

3. Do dual-refrigerant units cost more upfront?

While there may be a small price difference, dual-compatible units save money long-term by avoiding premature equipment replacement, reducing inventory needs and simplifying training.

4. Do A2L refrigerants require extensive safety training?

A2Ls are lightly flammable refrigerants (ASHRAE Class 2L) with clear safety protocols. Training resources are widely available, and contractors will need to adapt eventually — better to start now.

5. Why not just wait and buy an A2L system later?

Waiting could lead to supply shortages, higher costs and rushed installations when HFCs phase out. Our dual-refrigerant approach allows customers to transition at their own pace without disruptions, and avoid having to buy a unit cooler or condensing unit, twice, when “New” is triggered after a repair.

6. Will Heatcraft’s units comply with UL safety standards?

Yes. Our systems are UL-listed, fully compliant and extensively tested in our UL-certified R&D lab.

7. Could future UL changes make Heatcraft’s dual-refrigerant design obsolete?

All manufacturers must comply with future standards. Our dual-refrigerant approach minimizes risk by reducing the need for multiple SKUs and ensuring flexibility as standards evolve.  The dual-refrigerant design could be affected by future UL changes, positively or negatively, as is the case with all designs.

8. How do we prevent accidental use of A2L in a system without safety measures?

Our dual-refrigerant units are clearly labeled, ensuring contractors know when an A2L refrigerant requires an A2L mitigation control and sensor (RDS).

9. What if the AIM Act or refrigerant regulations change under a new administration?

The AIM Act was passed with bipartisan support, and HFC phasedown regulations are already in motion. Regardless of policy shifts, our dual-refrigerant units work with both A1 and A2L, keeping customers covered for the future.

10. What refrigerants do Heatcraft’s dual-refrigerant units support?

Our units support both A1 (HFC) and A2L (HFO) refrigerants. This allows customers to continue using familiar refrigerants while preparing for the industry shift to lower-GWP options.

11. Are A2L refrigerants already in use?

Yes, A2Ls are widely used in Europe and are gaining traction in the U.S. as regulations push for lower-GWP solutions. Several OEMs and contractors are already working with A2Ls in preparation for the HFC phasedown.

12. Will contractors need different tools or gauges for A2L refrigerants?

Most existing tools work with A2Ls, but contractors will need leak detectors rated for A2Ls and recovery machines designed for mildly flammable refrigerants.

13. How do I reassure customers who are hesitant about A2Ls?

A2Ls are not new technology — they have been tested extensively and used globally. The industry is moving toward these refrigerants, and training resources are available to ensure a smooth transition.

14. Do dual-refrigerant units require additional installation steps?

No additional steps are needed for HFCs. For A2Ls, an RDS (refrigerant detection system) and other required safety measures must be installed per UL and code requirements.

15. Will dual-refrigerant systems be harder to service?

No. The design follows familiar refrigeration principles, and technicians can continue servicing units as they always have. The key difference is following A2L safety protocols when switching refrigerants.

16. How does Heatcraft’s dual-refrigerant approach help distributors and wholesalers?

Distributors can reduce SKU complexity, optimize inventory, and offer a single system that meets multiple customer needs, rather than stocking separate A1 and A2L models.

17. Will A2Ls be required in all new systems soon?

While timelines vary by application and state, the industry is shifting toward A2Ls. Major states like California are already mandating them, and EPA regulations under the AIM Act accelerate the transition.

18. What happens if a contractor mistakenly charges an A2L system with an A1 refrigerant (or vice versa)?

The unit will still operate, but performance, efficiency and safety will be impacted. Proper labeling, training and handling procedures help prevent this mistake.

19. How does Heatcraft’s UL certification process ensure system safety?

Our R&D lab is UL-certified, and all dual-refrigerant systems undergo rigorous safety and compliance testing before release.

20. What should I tell a customer who is still on the fence about A2Ls?

Change is coming, and waiting could lead to supply chain disruptions and higher costs. Heatcraft’s dual-refrigerant approach gives customers the flexibility to transition on their timeline without major financial risk.