GWP 700 represents refrigerants with a Global Warming Potential of 700, marking the threshold between high-GWP and mid-GWP substances under current EPA regulations. These refrigerants are transitional solutions being phased down under the Kigali Amendment. Many GWP 700 refrigerants are HFC or HFC-blend products previously approved by EPA SNAP.
Technical Characteristics
Refrigerants at GWP 700 include common HFCs like R-410A (GWP 2088) and R-404A (GWP 3922) variants when blended with lower-GWP components. While superior to older CFC refrigerants (GWP 4000+), they remain significantly higher than modern HFO alternatives. EPA SNAP restrictions increasingly limit new equipment using GWP 700 substances.
Phase-Down Status
GWP 700 refrigerants are subject to mandatory phase-down schedules, with production and importation quotas declining annually. EPA regulations restrict new equipment certification using these substances for many applications. Existing systems may continue operation until end-of-life, but service and retrofitting must follow specific EPA guidance.