If you service air conditioners, fridges or cold rooms, the refrigerant in the system matters as much as the compressor. Old gases are being phased down under international agreements, newer gases need different tools and oils, and mixing them causes failures. This guide explains refrigerant gases in simple terms: R22, R410A, R32, R134a, R404A and the natural refrigerants R290 and R600a.
Why refrigerants are changing
Under the Montreal Protocol, countries agreed to phase out gases that damage the ozone layer. R22 is one of these gases, an HCFC. Developing countries, including Kenya, follow a schedule that cuts HCFC use in steps, with only a small servicing allowance left after 2030 and a full phase-out by 2040.
The Kigali Amendment then added HFCs such as R410A, R134a and R404A. They do not harm the ozone layer but have a high global warming potential (GWP). Kenya is in the group of countries scheduled to freeze HFC use from 2024 and then reduce it in stages. The practical result is a gradual shift toward lower-GWP gases.
Common refrigerants at a glance
| Refrigerant | Type | Typical use | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| R22 | HCFC | Older split ACs, chillers, cold rooms | Being phased out; for servicing existing systems only |
| R410A | HFC blend | Split and ducted air conditioners | Runs at higher pressure than R22; needs matching gauges and POE oil |
| R32 | HFC | Newer split air conditioners | Lower GWP than R410A; mildly flammable (A2L) |
| R134a | HFC | Car AC, fridges, medium temperature systems | Used widely in automotive and commercial refrigeration |
| R404A | HFC blend | Freezers and low-temperature cold rooms | High GWP; being replaced over time |
| R290 / R600a | Hydrocarbons | Small fridges, freezers, display coolers | Very low GWP; flammable (A3), needs trained handling |
Browse the gases we carry in our refrigeration gases category.
Can you replace one refrigerant with another?
In most cases, no. Each system is designed for a specific refrigerant, pressure and oil. Putting R410A into an R22 system, for example, is unsafe because R410A runs at much higher pressures. Changing refrigerant normally means following the equipment maker’s guidance, changing the oil, and sometimes replacing the compressor, expansion device and filter drier.
Never mix refrigerants in one system. A mixed charge behaves unpredictably, makes fault-finding difficult and cannot be recovered and reused properly.
Oils, tools and good practice
- Match the oil. R22 systems usually use mineral oil; most HFC systems use POE oil. Car AC systems with R134a usually use PAG oil. See our refrigeration oils.
- Use the right gauges. Manifold gauges must be rated for the refrigerant pressure. Our refrigeration and AC tools include gauges, hoses and vacuum equipment.
- Pull a proper vacuum. Moisture and air in a system cause acid, poor cooling and compressor failure.
- Charge blends as liquid. Blends such as R410A and R404A should be charged in liquid form so the mix stays correct.
- Recover, do not vent. Releasing refrigerant to the air is harmful and wasteful.
Working safely with flammable refrigerants
R32 is mildly flammable, and R290 and R600a are flammable. Work in a ventilated area, keep ignition sources away, use tools rated for these gases and follow the equipment maker’s instructions. Technicians should be trained in hydrocarbon handling before working on these systems.
Frequently asked questions
Is R22 banned in Kenya?
Can I put R410A in an R22 air conditioner?
What is the difference between R410A and R32?
Which refrigerant is used in car AC?
Where can I buy refrigerant gas in Nairobi?
Servicing a system and not sure of the gas? Send a photo of the unit nameplate on WhatsApp 0726 086 895 and we will help you identify the refrigerant and oil.