What refrigerant is commonly used in modern commercial HVAC systems due to its low environmental impact?

R-410A is commonly used in modern commercial HVAC systems due to its low environmental impact, particularly regarding ozone depletion and global warming potential. Unlike its predecessor, R-22, which has been phased out due to its harmful effects on the ozone layer, R-410A contains no chlorine, significantly reducing its ozone depletion potential to zero. This makes R-410A a more environmentally responsible choice for HVAC applications.

Additionally, R-410A operates at higher pressures compared to R-22, which contributes to improved system efficiency and performance. It is also designed to work effectively in newer systems that are optimized for its use, ensuring better energy efficiency and lower operating costs. This combination of environmental safety and efficiency makes R-410A a preferred refrigerant for modern HVAC systems in commercial settings.