R404A vs R448A: Which Refrigerant Is Right for Your Business?
R404A vs R448A: Which Refrigerant Is Right for Your Business?
As environmental regulations tighten and businesses seek more sustainable solutions, many refrigeration professionals face a key question: Should we keep using R404A, or switch to R448A?
Both refrigerants are widely used in commercial and industrial systems, but they differ in performance, environmental impact, and long-term viability. Let’s take a closer look.
1. Composition and Type
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R404A is a near-azeotropic HFC blend consisting of R125, R143a, and R134a. It was developed as a replacement for R502 and has been the standard in low- and medium-temperature refrigeration for decades.
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R448A (Solstice® N40) is a next-generation HFO/HFC blend containing R32, R125, R134a, R1234yf, and R1234ze. It’s designed as a low-GWP alternative to R404A and R22, offering comparable cooling performance with a reduced environmental footprint.
2. Environmental Impact
One of the biggest differences between R404A and R448A lies in their Global Warming Potential (GWP):
| Refrigerant | ODP | GWP (AR5) | Environmental Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| R404A | 0 | ~3922 | High GWP (HFC) |
| R448A | 0 | ~1273 | Low GWP (HFO/HFC blend) |
➡️ Key takeaway: R448A’s GWP is roughly 70% lower than R404A’s, making it a much more sustainable choice that aligns with EU F-Gas and U.S. EPA AIM Act regulations.
3. Performance Comparison
| Parameter | R404A | R448A |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling Capacity | 100% (baseline) | 95–105% (similar or slightly higher) |
| Energy Efficiency | Standard | Up to 5–10% more efficient |
| Temperature Glide | ~0.5K | ~6K |
| Lubricant Compatibility | POE oil | POE oil |
| Discharge Temperature | Moderate | Slightly higher |
➡️ Insight: R448A delivers comparable cooling capacity with better energy efficiency, helping businesses reduce both operating costs and carbon emissions.
4. System Compatibility and Retrofit Considerations
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R404A systems can often be retrofitted to R448A with moderate modifications.
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Key steps usually include:
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Changing expansion valve settings.
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Replacing or recalibrating pressure controls.
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Updating refrigerant labeling and safety documentation.
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Always consult the equipment manufacturer or a qualified refrigeration engineer before conversion to ensure optimal performance and compliance.
5. Cost and Availability
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R404A: Still widely available, but prices are increasing as production phases down under F-Gas and AIM Act regulations.
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R448A: Becoming more common as OEMs and suppliers shift to low-GWP products; initial cost may be higher, but long-term compliance and energy savings make it cost-effective.
6. Which Should You Choose?
| Scenario | Recommended Option |
|---|---|
| Existing systems still running R404A efficiently | Continue with R404A, ensure leak-tight operation and proper maintenance. |
| Retrofitting older systems to meet new standards | Switch to R448A, for reduced GWP and energy improvement. |
| Designing new equipment or facilities | R448A or similar low-GWP blends are the best long-term investment. |
7. The Bottom Line
R404A has earned its place as a reliable, high-performance refrigerant, but its high GWP makes it unsustainable for the future. R448A offers a balance between performance, efficiency, and environmental responsibility, making it an excellent choice for businesses planning ahead.
If your company is ready to transition or explore bulk refrigerant supply options, our team can help you choose the best solution for your system and sustainability goals.
👉 Contact us today for expert guidance and wholesale pricing on R404A and R448A refrigerants.