R-32 Refrigerant
Difluoromethane (CH₂F₂) - Low GWP Alternative to R-410A
Overview
R-32 (Difluoromethane) is a pure HFC refrigerant increasingly used as an alternative to R-410A in air conditioning systems. With a GWP of 675 (68% lower than R-410A), R-32 meets the EPA's 2025 GWP requirements for new HVAC equipment.
R-32 is the dominant refrigerant in Asia, with over 70% market share in countries like Japan and Thailand. Major manufacturers including Daikin, Mitsubishi, and Panasonic have adopted R-32 as their primary refrigerant for residential and light commercial systems.
Technical Properties
Pressure-Temperature Chart
Full Chart →| °C | °F | psig | kPa | bar |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| -20 | -4 | 48.1 | 432 | 4.32 |
| -10 | 14 | 75.7 | 623 | 6.23 |
| 0 | 32 | 110.3 | 862 | 8.62 |
| 10 | 50 | 152.8 | 1,155 | 11.55 |
| 20 | 68 | 204.1 | 1,508 | 15.08 |
| 30 | 86 | 265.3 | 1,930 | 19.30 |
| 40 | 104 | 337.5 | 2,427 | 24.27 |
| 50 | 122 | 421.8 | 3,009 | 30.09 |
R-32 vs R-410A
| Property | R-32 | R-410A |
|---|---|---|
| GWP | 675 | 2088 |
| Safety Class | A2L | A1 |
| Refrigerant Charge | ~30% Less | Baseline |
| Volumetric Capacity | ~12% Higher | Baseline |
| Discharge Temperature | Higher | Baseline |
| Operating Pressure @ 40°C | 337.5 psig | 306.1 psig |
A2L Safety
R-32 is classified as A2L (mildly flammable). Follow these safety guidelines:
- Use A2L-rated recovery equipment
- Ensure adequate ventilation
- No open flames or sparks
- Use A2L leak detectors
- Complete A2L training
Applications
-
Residential Split Systems
-
Light Commercial AC
-
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF)
-
Heat Pump Systems
Major R-32 Brands
Frequently Asked Questions
Can R-32 be used as a drop-in replacement for R-410A?
No, R-32 is not a drop-in replacement for R-410A. While both are used in similar applications, R-32 systems require specifically designed equipment due to higher operating pressures and discharge temperatures. Never retrofit an R-410A system with R-32.
Is R-32 safe to use?
Yes, R-32 is safe when handled properly. It's classified as A2L (mildly flammable), which means it requires an ignition source and specific concentration levels to ignite. Normal operating conditions do not create ignition risks. Technicians should complete A2L training and use appropriate equipment.
What oil should be used with R-32?
R-32 systems use POE (Polyolester) oil, the same type used with R-410A. Always verify the specific oil recommendation from the equipment manufacturer.
Why is R-32 popular in Asia but less common in the US?
R-32 has been widely adopted in Asia since 2012, with Daikin leading the transition. In the US, manufacturers have favored R-454B (Puron Advance) for the 2025 transition due to its slightly lower GWP and similar operating characteristics to R-410A. However, R-32 is approved by the EPA and is gaining adoption in the US market.