With R404A heavily restricted under the F-Gas Regulation, many operators are switching to lower-GWP alternatives like R448A. Here’s how the two compare.
The key difference: GWP
R404A has a GWP of around 3922 — one of the highest in common use. R448A has a GWP of around 1387, roughly a third of R404A. That dramatically reduces both environmental impact and the CO2-equivalent charge counted against F-Gas quotas.
Performance
R448A is designed as a close match for R404A in low and medium-temperature applications, with comparable capacity and improved efficiency in many systems. It can run with slightly higher discharge temperatures, so check compressor limits.
Retrofit considerations
- Recover the R404A charge fully before converting
- R448A uses POE oil — an oil change may be required
- Charge as a liquid, as it’s a zeotropic blend
- Check and adjust the expansion device and controls
The verdict
For new systems and most retrofits, R448A (or the similar R449A) is the sensible, future-proofed choice. R404A remains in legacy systems but is increasingly expensive and restricted.
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