A2L Refrigerant Tools and Storage
As mildly flammable A2L refrigerants enter the multifamily HVAC market, maintenance professionals need to make sure they have the right tools and training to install and maintain the new A2L compatible equipment safely.
As multifamily communities decide when to make the shift to A2L compatible HVAC equipment, many maintenance technicians are wondering if their recovery cylinders, manifolds, gauges, and other tools will need to be replaced. Let’s answer that question for every HVAC tool on your cart. Then, we will talk about how to safely handle and properly store the new refrigerant.
The first thing you need to know is that you will not need to replace all your tools to work on A2L refrigerants. In fact, you can still use many of the tools you already own. Here are some quick tips:
- Tools that DO NOT touch the refrigerant circuit, including non-electric hand tools, as well as access valves and valve core removal tools, are generally compatible with both A1 and A2L systems.
- Tools that DO touch the refrigerant circuit MUST BE non-sparking (or “spark free”) and SHOULD BE compatible with HFOs and rated for A2Ls or A2L certified.
A2L Rated Refrigerant and Recovery Tanks
- Red stripe on white or gray tank
- Reverse (left-hand) threads
- Pressure relief valve, not a rupture disc
- 20 lb. cylinder
- Red stripe on white or gray tank
- Reverse (left-hand) threads
- Pressure relief valve, not a rupture disc
- 20 lb. cylinder
- Holds recovered refrigerant
- Gray tank, yellow top, red stripe
- Reverse (left-hand) threads
- Dual port liquid/vapor valve
- 30 lb. cylinder
Testing and Troubleshooting A2L Rated Equipment
- Measures pressures and temperatures
- Calculates superheat, subcooling, saturation
- Easily updates to add new refrigerants
Manifolds, Gauges, Hoses
#107364
- Choose models that include R-32, R-454B refrigerants
- Be sure set includes reverse-thread tank adapters and dedicated hoses
Separate manifolds, gauges, and hoses recommended for each refrigerant. This will minimize the risk of cross-contamination.
- A2L refrigerants have similar operating pressures as R-410A, but saturation pressures are different.
- Digital manifolds may be updated to work with new refrigerants.
- New analog manifolds, gauges, and hoses should be purchased.
A2L Maintenance and Safety Tools
- Removes air, moisture, residual refrigerant
- Spark free, A2L compatible
- Available in 8 CFM dual, 6 CFM dual, and 4 CFM single stage
- Removes refrigerant
- A2L certified, non-sparking
- Compatible with A1 and A2L
- Dual 1HP
- Detects Halogen: CFC (R-12); HCFC (R-22), HFC (R-410A) and most refrigerant blends
- A2L certified
- E_MOS™ detection
- Senses all refrigerants including those with hydrocarbon components
Other Important A2L Refrigerant Tools
- Measures weight of recovery cylinders
- 220 lb. capacity
- Transition to A2L refrigerants does not affect scales
Reverse Thread Tank Adapters
#105001
- A2L refrigerant tank threads are reversed
- Also available in 45-degree (#105002)
Refrigerant Stickers
R-32 #101109 (10pk.)
- Required to identify A2L refrigerant
- Used to clearly label recovery tanks
Refrigerant Stickers
R-454B #101108 (10pk.)
- Required to identify A2L refrigerant
- Used to clearly label recovery tanks
A2L Tools and Storage FAQs
How are these new A2L rated tools different than what HVAC technicians already use?
The tools maintenance technicians will use to install and maintain A2L equipment and work with A2L refrigerants look very similar to what they are already using, and the process will also be familiar to experienced HVAC techs. However, the new A2L compatible tools must be non-sparking and non-arcing.
Will maintenance technicians be able to use the A2L tools on old equipment?
Yes—A2L rated tools are backwards compatible. If maintenance teams still have R-410 and R-22 units on their property, they will be able to use the new, A2L rated tools to work on those units as well. Separate manifolds, gauges, and hoses should be used for each refrigerant.
Will HVAC techs need new hand tools to work on A2L compatible equipment?
In most cases, tools that will not touch the refrigerant circuit, including hand tools, are compatible with both A1 and A2L systems.
Will A2L refrigerant tanks look the same as A1 rated refrigerant such as R-410A?
A2L refrigerant tanks will have several unique factors including color, hookups, and valves.
- Previous refrigerants came in specific colors—pink for R-410A and green for R-22.
- All A2L refrigerants will come in white or gray tanks with a red band.
- The type of refrigerant will be stamped on the side of the tank. Other differences include a pressure relief valve and left-handed reverse thread connections.
How should A2L refrigerants be stored?
Refrigerant cylinders should not be stored in confined spaces such as “flammable” cabinets, containers, or lockers.
- These cylinders are pressurized and may rupture when exposed to high temperatures.
- Always store cylinders under 125°F.
- According to OSHA, flammable refrigerants must be stored upright in a secure, ventilated enclosure.
For more A2L storage tips and on-site requirements, visit Chadwell Supply’s Refrigerant Roadmap.
Training FAQs
Why are new refrigerants entering the residential market?
On January 1, 2024, federal regulations reduced the production of R-410A refrigerant by a total 40%. By 2029, R-410A production will be reduced by 70%. While this reduction is a phase down, not a phase out, HVAC manufacturers have already begun the process of producing new A2L compatible equipment.
- No R-410A equipment can be manufactured after December 31, 2024.
- No R-410A equipment can be sold or installed after December 31, 2025.
Will maintenance technicians require additional certifications?
The EPA608 certification course covers flammable refrigerants. At this time, there is no additional federal certification required. This may change at the federal level, and local or state legislatures may add additional requirements.
How can HVAC techs learn more about how to work with A2L refrigerant safely?
To help property maintenance teams refresh their skills and stay up to date throughout this transition, Chadwell University is offering FREE online webinars. These classes are taught by veteran HVAC maintenance technicians who share practical information technicians need to be competent and feel comfortable working with A2L refrigerants. Topics discussed include:
- Types of A2L refrigerants
- What the A2L designation means
- Differences in A2L equipment and tools
- Safe installation and maintenance processes
- Proper storage and handling practices
Sign up for the next FREE A2L Webinar here. Learn more about A2L refrigerants, equipment, and get timely tips at ChadwellSupply.com/A2L.
