Rapid growth in the UK aftermarket for low GWP Refrigerant R-1234yf

New European directives state new vehicles must have an air conditioning refrigerant gas with a GWP value lower than 150, with the aim to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases from car air conditioning systems.

There is one refrigerant, R1234yf, on the market now that meets this requirement and from the 1 January 2017, every single new car coming off the production line will be using it.

R1234yf has undergone comprehensive testing, involving 15 international car manufacturers and 18 independent scientific institutions.

About 600 grams of refrigerant are contained in modern air conditioning equipment. All 2.54 million registered in 2017 alone will be using R1234yf refrigerant and over the longer term will each have requirements for refills during the automotive cycle. Whilst many older vehicles will still be using refrigerant R-134a in their air conditioning, the aftermarket needs to be ready for the increase in demand for R1234yf.

Climalife is a key player in the distribution of refrigerants and other climate control products with a nationwide distribution network and product knowledge that’s second to none. Climalife has R1234yf readily available in 5kg or 11kg cylinders and continue to supply R134a. With the need for R-134a and R1234yf, it’s important that the aftermarket has both products in stock and the right equipment to handle them.