In Part I of Jim Wheeler’s coverage of the show, he discusses refrigerants and plumbing and bath products. More of his observations will follow in Jim Wheeler’s regular monthly HVACR columns published in SUPPLY HOUSE TIMES. You can contact Jim Wheeler, a 25+ year HVACR industry veteran, at jimwheeler@ij.net.
The problem, of course, is that even if they can come up with an
HFC/hydrocarbon blend that is a bit more miscible (mixable) with the mineral
oil in existing R22 systems, these new refrigerants produce a drop in cooling
capacity, which is made even worse in systems with enhanced tubing in the
coils, and it is harmful to many internal seals.