Which refrigerant is commonly used in light commercial refrigeration applications?

The refrigerants R-134a and R-404A are commonly used in light commercial refrigeration applications due to their effective thermodynamic properties and suitability for various temperature ranges found in commercial refrigeration systems. R-134a is often used in medium-temperature applications, while R-404A is utilized mainly in low-temperature environments, such as in freezers and cold storage.

Both of these refrigerants are also recognized for their relatively lower environmental impact compared to older refrigerants. R-404A, for example, was designed to replace R-502 and is known for its efficiency in heat transfer and refrigeration cycles, making it an excellent choice for commercial refrigeration units.

In contrast, other options like R-22 and R-410A are less commonly used in light commercial applications today. R-22 is being phased out due to its ozone-depleting effects, and while R-410A has gained popularity in residential air conditioning systems, it is not as widely used in refrigeration. R-12 is also outdated and banned due to environmental concerns related to its ozone depletion potential.

Thus, R-134a and R-404A stand out as the more suitable choices for light commercial refrigeration, balancing performance with regulatory compliance and environmental considerations.