ICC Commercial Mechanical Practice Exam

R-22 Refrigerant has what refrigerant classification?

1. A1

2. A2

3. A3

4. B1

The correct answer is: A1

R-22 refrigerant is classified as A1. This classification system, established by ASHRAE (the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers), categorizes refrigerants based on their safety and environmental impact. The A1 classification indicates that R-22 is considered safe in terms of toxicity and flammability. Specifically, A1 refrigerants are non-toxic and non-flammable; they have a low potential for causing harm if released into the environment. R-22, which is a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC), has been widely used in various refrigeration and air conditioning applications, primarily because of its effective cooling properties and safe handling characteristics throughout its operational life. Understanding the classification of refrigerants is essential not only for compliance with safety standards but also for determining their suitability in different applications. The other classifications have different implications regarding toxicity and flammability, making it crucial for technicians to select the appropriate refrigerant based on its classification.