For retailers, switching to low-GWP refrigerants isn’t just about compliance — it reduces exposure to rising high-GWP gas prices and supports sustainability goals. Here are the front-runners.
The leading low-GWP options
- CO2 (R744), GWP 1 — the gold standard for new larger systems
- R290 (propane), GWP ~3 — for self-contained cabinets
- R448A / R449A, GWP ~1390 — practical R404A replacements for existing system types
- R454C and similar A2L blends — emerging lower-GWP options
Retrofit vs replace
Existing R404A systems can often be retrofitted to R448A/R449A relatively easily, delivering an immediate GWP cut. New installations increasingly go straight to CO2 or hydrocarbons for the lowest long-term impact.
The business case
Lower-GWP refrigerants reduce the CO2-equivalent charge counted against F-Gas quotas, lower the risk of costly gas in future, and often improve energy efficiency — a win on running costs too.
FAQ
What’s the lowest-GWP refrigerant for retail? Natural refrigerants like CO2 (GWP 1) and propane (GWP ~3) offer the lowest impact.
Explore low-GWP refrigerants in our shop.