A2L TRANSITION RESOURCES
The transition to low-GWP refrigerants is changing refrigeration system design, safety requirements, and long-term planning.
LATEST INDUSTRY UPDATES
Current A2L Regulatory Developments
At RDT, we remain aligned with the long-term direction toward lower-GWP refrigerants and will continue supporting customers through that transition.
At the same time, if your project needs to move forward with an A1 refrigerant under the revised timeline, our NextGen platform is designed to support either path using the same core platform architecture.
This gives customers flexibility to proceed based on project needs, regulatory strategy, and timing. If you would like to discuss how this change affects your project or whether an A1 option is the right fit, please contact your Project Manager and we will work with you on the best path forward.
KEY CONSIDERATIONS
A2L adoption isn’t just a refrigerant change. It affects how systems are designed, installed, serviced, and planned for over their lifecycle.
Regulatory Timeline & Project Readiness
Understand how evolving EPA SNAP rules and UL safety standards are influencing equipment eligibility, project specifications, and construction timelines. Align design decisions early to avoid last-minute compliance changes or redesigns.
System Design & Equipment Compatibility
Learn how A2L refrigerants influence system architecture, charge limits, leak mitigation strategies, and equipment selection across walk-ins, racks, and remote systems.
Safety, Compliance & Technician Readiness
Explore required safety measures including leak detection, ventilation considerations, ignition risk mitigation, and evolving technician training expectations for A2L handling.
Lifecycle Planning & Total Cost of Ownership
Evaluate how A2L adoption affects long-term serviceability, parts availability, energy efficiency expectations, and capital planning for future equipment upgrades.
A2L Refrigerant Transitions Guide
A practical guide covering refrigerant classifications, regulatory developments, safety considerations, and planning strategies for the transition to lower-GWP refrigerants.
What's in the guide?
- Tips for creating a future-proof plan
- Clear timeline of EPA regulations and deadlines
- Bonus: checklist to help you prepare
A2L Refrigerant Transition Guide
A2L ARTICLES & INSIGHTS
Explore A2L Resources
Some articles reference the original compliance timeline. Refer to the Latest Industry Update section above for the most current regulatory information.
RDT NextGen Platform Recognized as 2026 FCSI Innovation Showcase Finalist
RDT has been named a finalist in the 2026 FCSI The Americas Innovation Showcase for its NextGen Refrigeration Platform, a ground-up advancement in remote condensing unit design focused on performance, efficiency, and regulatory readiness.
Different Types of Refrigerants: A1, A2L, and A3 Explained
Explanation of the different types of refrigerants: A1, A2 and A3; including their properties and uses.
EPA Proposes Extension to A2L Transition Deadline: What It Means for RDT Customers
EPA's Proposed Rule could extend the A2L refrigerant transition deadline. Learn what this means for RDT customers and how we're preparing for compliance.
Understanding A2L Refrigerants and Their Impact on Buyers
A2L refrigerants represent a shift in commercial refrigeration, offering a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional refrigerants.
Preparing Your Business for A2L Refrigerant Compliance
We took a look into the importance of R-290 compliance, highlighting the challenges businesses may face during this transition.
How to Stay Informed on EPA Policies Surrounding A2L Refrigerants
It's important for business owners to stay informed on the EPA's policies surrounding A2L refrigerants. Here are some tips on how.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Answers to the most common questions about A2L refrigerants and the transition.
What is the new EPA Proposed Rule on A2L?
Explore our continually updated blog for the latest regulatory insights.
How Are A2L Systems Different from Traditional Refrigeration Systems?
A2L systems are engineered with additional safety, ventilation, and leak detection measures to account for the mild flammability of the refrigerant. These design differences ensure compliance with updated safety standards like UL 60335-2-89 and ASHRAE 15.
Key Differences in A2L Systems
1. Leak Detection Systems
Required in most applications using A2Ls
Monitors for refrigerant leaks in enclosed spaces
Automatically triggers alarms or system shutdown if thresholds are exceeded
2. Ventilation or Airflow Management
May require mechanical ventilation in equipment rooms or confined spaces
Prevents refrigerant concentrations from reaching flammable levels
3. Charge Size Limits
Subject to strict maximum charge amounts based on room size, application, and presence of leak detection
System design must account for these limits to stay compliant
4. Spark-Free Electrical Components
Components in areas where refrigerant may accumulate must be ignition-protected or spark-free
5. Safety Control Logic
Built-in logic shuts down compressors and activates ventilation systems automatically in the event of a leak
What Are A2L Refrigerants? Why Are They Important?
A2L refrigerants are low-GWP (Global Warming Potential), mildly flammable alternatives to older refrigerants like R-404A. They are essential for meeting EPA and AIM Act regulations taking effect January 1, 2026.
💡 Want to understand how this regulation impacts your operation?
[Download our full A2L Transition Guide]
When Is the EPA’s A2L Refrigerant Deadline?
Deadline: January 1, 2026
All new refrigeration systems must use compliant, low-GWP refrigerants like A2Ls by this date. Compliance is based on the installation date, not the purchase date.
📅 Need help planning your timeline?
[Grab the checklist in our free guide]
Can I Retrofit My Existing Refrigeration Systems to Use A2Ls?
In most cases, no. Retrofitting is not allowed due to pressure and flammability differences. A full system replacement is usually required.
🛠 Not sure whether to replace or upgrade?
[Get expert advice in our A2L Transition Guide]
Are There Safety Considerations for A2L Refrigerants?
A2L systems require:
Proper ventilation and airflow controls
Certified leak detection systems
Tools and equipment rated for use with flammable refrigerants
🧯 Explore our safety checklist in the full guide
[See the checklist]
Will Switching to A2L Refrigerants Save Energy or Cost More?
While upfront costs may be higher, A2L systems often deliver 5–10% energy savings compared to legacy HFC systems—providing a long-term return on investment.
⚡ Explore the energy efficiency comparison
[Download the guide]
How Can I Prepare for Supply Chain Delays Ahead of the 2026 Deadline?
Start sourcing compliant equipment early
Build relationships with trusted suppliers
Align early with inspectors and insurance providers
📦 Our guide walks you through every prep step
[Get the planning guide]
What codes or standards apply?
Are there any installation differences compared to A1 refrigerants?
Yes. Most A2L installations will include:
Refrigerant shut-off valves in the suction and liquid lines, installed outside walk-ins
Control via evaporator controller with leak detection sensors
Possible requirements for fire-rated shafts or ventilation systems
Always refer to local building, mechanical, and fire codes along with ASHRAE 15.
Do servicers need special tools to work on A2L equipment?
Yes. Tools must be certified for flammable refrigerants:
Recovery machines, vacuum pumps, hoses, and gauges must be A2L-rated
Spark-proof tools are often required
Open flames or ignition sources must be avoided during service
Will A2L Refrigerants Require New Components?
Yes. A2L-compliant systems require:
Specially designed compressors, condensers, and expansion valves
Electrical components (e.g., contactors, pressure switches, relays, controllers) rated for A2L compatibility
HOW RDT IS PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE
Future-Ready Refrigeration Design
As refrigerant regulations continue to evolve, refrigeration system design is evolving alongside them. RDT is developing technologies and system architectures designed to support changing industry requirements while maintaining reliability and efficiency.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
CONSULTANT RESOURCES
Insights for Consultants & Design Professionals
These questions and resources were developed from conversations with consulting engineers evaluating A2L refrigeration systems and regulatory requirements.
Technical Questions
Technical guidance on designing, specifying, and planning A2L refrigeration systems.
Why do I not see the compressor horsepower rating on refrigeration drawing?
The compressor manufacturer has been moving away from horsepower ratings for a few years now. Horsepower ratings are being phased out because they don’t accurately represent how a compressor performs. Horsepower only shows the motor’s input power, not the cooling capacity of the compressor. With newer efficiency standards and the shift to A2L refrigerants, compressors are now rated by actual performance metrics—such as BTU capacity, COP, and AWEF, which give a much clearer picture of how the equipment will operate in the field.
Can we still get an A1 refrigeration system?
Yes, however they are exclusively for PARTIAL replacement systems. Example: your customer wants to replace either the condensing unit or evaporators, NOT BOTH. If both need to be replaced, then an A2L system will have to be quoted.
Why doesn’t the refrigeration rack nomenclature match what was specified?
With the A2L transition, all RDT and Polarcraft equipment required an update to the rack nomenclature that identifies the new model equipment.
Why doesn’t the evaporator model match what was specified?
Along with the A2L transition, RDT made the decision to change evaporator suppliers, thus causing the model discrepancy. This change allows full integration with our Eco-Smart control platform and the system architecture used in our current refrigeration designs. The evaporator provided is engineered to meet or exceed the performance specifications of the originally selected evaporator and is fully compatible with the specified refrigeration system.
Does RDT offer indoor refrigeration systems, air or water?
Yes, RDT offers both air-cooled and water-cooled refrigeration systems for indoor installation. However, there have been some adjustments made, which include, but are not limited to, factory installed stainless-steel housing and a field-installed refrigerant detection sensor kit.
Is the refrigeration system designed in accordance with ASHRAE 15?
Yes, the refrigeration system is designed in accordance with the ASHRAE 15 standard. However, ASHRAE 15 also focuses on how refrigeration systems are installed. There are calculations and code compliance requirements determined by the projects professional engineer (PE) to confirm that the installation adheres to the standard.
ASHRAE 15 classifies various occupancies, which affect several sections of that standard. Who determines which occupancy is correct for any given location?
The architect of record or the building inspector would typically determine this classification.
Questions About the A2L Transition?
Whether you're evaluating a new project, planning for future compliance requirements, or exploring refrigeration system options, our team can help.
