Most split air conditioners sold in South Africa today use one of two refrigerant gases: R32 or R410A. Here is how they compare.
| R32 | R410A | |
|---|---|---|
| Global warming potential | 675 — about a third of R410A | 2 088 |
| Energy efficiency | Typically a little more efficient, which lowers running costs | Good, but slightly lower than R32 |
| Composition | A single gas (difluoromethane), so it is easy to recover and recycle | A blend of R32 and R125 |
| Amount needed | Around 20–30% less refrigerant for the same capacity | More refrigerant per unit |
| Safety | Class A2L: mildly flammable, so it must be installed by a qualified technician | Class A1: non-flammable |
| Future rules | Favoured under the HFC phase-down | Being phased down internationally under the Kigali Amendment |
Our advice
For most homes and offices an R32 inverter is the better choice: it is efficient, needs less refrigerant and has a much lower environmental impact. R410A units are still a sound choice and the gas remains available for servicing, but it is gradually being phased down.
Is R32 gas safe in my home?
Yes, when installed correctly. R32 is classed as mildly flammable (A2L): it is hard to ignite and the amount in a home split is small. It must be installed, pressure-tested and serviced by a qualified technician who follows the manufacturer’s instructions.
Can I put R32 into an R410A aircon?
No. Each unit is designed, tested and labelled for one refrigerant. Never mix gases or convert a unit — it can damage the compressor and void the warranty.
What should I do with an old R22 aircon?
R22 is being phased out, so the gas is increasingly scarce and expensive to top up. If an R22 unit needs a major repair or regassing, replacing it with an R32 inverter is usually the better investment — you also gain lower running costs.