Which refrigerant is commonly used in modern HVAC systems due to its low environmental impact?

R-410A is commonly used in modern HVAC systems primarily because it has a significantly lower environmental impact compared to older refrigerants like R-22. One of the key advantages of R-410A is that it does not deplete the ozone layer, making it a more environmentally friendly option. Moreover, R-410A operates at higher pressures and has better energy efficiency compared to other refrigerants, which contributes to improved cooling performance in air conditioning units.

In contrast, R-22, which is also known as Freon, has been phased out in many countries due to its ozone-depleting properties and is being replaced by refrigerants like R-410A. Ammonia, while effective as a refrigerant, is primarily used in industrial applications due to its toxicity and safety concerns in residential settings. R-134A is another refrigerant with lower ozone depletion potential than R-22, but it has a higher global warming potential compared to R-410A, making R-410A generally preferred for new installations and upgrades in HVAC systems today.