I want to purchase a system that uses alternative refrigerants. How should I select an appropriate dealer and contractor?
Not all contractors are properly trained. EPA does not require certification for technicians that service appliances with non-ozone depleting substitute refrigerants. Consumers should be aware that dealers of systems that use substitute refrigerants should be trained in installation and service techniques required for use of that substitute refrigerant. The transition away from ozone-depleting R-22 to systems that rely on replacement refrigerants like R-410A has required the redesign of heat pump and air-conditioning systems. New systems incorporate compressors and other components specifically designed to use specific alternative refrigerants. With these significant product and production process changes, testing and training has also changed.
Not all contractors are properly trained. EPA does not require certification for technicians that service appliances with non-ozone depleting substitute refrigerants. Consumers should be aware that technicians that use substitute refrigerants should be trained in the installation and service techniques required for use of that substitute refrigerant. The transition away from ozone-depleting R-22 to systems that rely on replacement refrigerants like R-410A has required the redesign of heat pump and air-conditioning systems.
