A Global Warming Potential (GWP) Limit is a regulatory threshold that restricts the climate impact of refrigerants used in HVAC systems by capping their heat-trapping ability over a 100-year period. These limits drive the industry away from high-GWP refrigerants toward environmentally responsible alternatives with significantly lower atmospheric impact.
Technical Measurement
GWP is calculated as a refrigerant’s ability to trap heat relative to CO2, which has a GWP of 1.0. HFC-410A has a GWP of 2,088, meaning it traps heat 2,088 times more effectively than CO2 over 100 years. Current regulations target refrigerants with GWP below 750 for most HVAC applications. HFO-1234yf has a GWP of 4, and HFO-1234ze has a GWP of 6. Testing follows ISO 817 standards for determining refrigerant properties and environmental impact assessments.
Regulatory and Market Response
The EPA enforces GWP limits through equipment certification requirements and phasedown schedules. Equipment manufacturers have redesigned systems to utilize low-GWP refrigerants, though higher costs persist during transition periods. HVAC contractors must select equipment meeting GWP limits established by local codes and DOE standards. Strict GWP limits accelerate innovation in refrigeration technology while reducing the industry’s contribution to climate change.