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Writer's pictureAudree Grubesic

HVAC Refrigerant Codes: What's Changing with The Unico System?

Welcome, I'm Audree Grubesic with Offsite Dirt. I was at the Unico factory in May, 2024, exploring their high-velocity, small ductwork HVAC system. Joining me is Craig Messmer, the Vice President of Engineering at Unico.


Craig Messmer’s Journey in HVAC Engineering Craig has a fascinating background. He’s been with The Unico System for nearly 40 years and has over 40 years of experience in the HVAC industry and manufacturing product design. Despite his impressive career, Craig remains humble, joking about how people often mistake him for being younger due to his height.


Craig holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in thermal systems, providing him with a robust foundation in thermal fluid sciences. His early career involved industrial, commercial, and military projects, but his work at Unico has primarily focused on residential applications.



Understanding Unico’s Unique HVAC System

The Unico system is a small duct high-velocity HVAC solution, classified as a distinct product within the residential central air conditioning and central heat pump category. This unique classification is due to its specialized ductwork, which requires different operational requirements compared to standard air conditioners.



New Industry Changes in Refrigeration

Audree highlighted the recent changes in the refrigeration industry, asking Craig to elaborate on these developments. Craig, who is also a representative in the AHRI group—a trade organization for heating, cooling, and refrigeration product manufacturers—explained the new regulations.


Transition to Eco-Friendly Refrigerants

The EPA has introduced a new rule mandating a change in refrigerants, driven by environmental concerns. The current refrigerant, R-410A, has a high global warming potential (GWP) of around 2,200. The new regulation aims to reduce this to below 750, prompting the industry to transition to alternatives like R32 and R454B, the latter being more favored in the U.S. due to its lower GWP.




Unico’s Compliance with New Refrigerant Regulations

Unico is adapting to these changes by ensuring their products are compatible with the new refrigerants. The new refrigerants, particularly R454B, have different properties and require modifications in the system design. These include the introduction of low-flammability refrigerants, classified as A2L, which necessitate the incorporation of refrigerant sensors to ensure safety.


The Challenges Ahead

Craig shared the challenges of this transition, including the need for millions of new sensors to be produced and integrated into HVAC systems. Unico, like other companies, is gearing up for fourth-quarter production to meet the demand and comply with the new regulations by January 1, 2025.



Unico’s Commitment to Innovation and Compliance

Unico’s proactive approach to regulatory compliance and innovation demonstrates their commitment to providing safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly HVAC solutions. Craig's insights underscore the importance of staying ahead of industry changes to meet consumer needs and regulatory standards.



Stay tuned for more insights and updates as we continue our exploration into the evolving world of HVAC and offsite construction.



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