MA Advisory on Lower GWP Refrigerants

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December 04, 2024 by Joseph Igoe

The upcoming federal mandate requiring the use of refrigerants with lower global warming potential will take effect on January 1, 2025. As a result, manufacturers are no longer distributing equipment that uses R-410A refrigerants and have shifted toward R-32 and R-454B refrigerants. This transition has created a conflict for projects permitted under both the 9th and 10th Editions of 780 CMR, as the use of these refrigerants is not adequately addressed in the referenced mechanical code.

To resolve discrepancies in the current codes, the BBRS has published an advisory opinion (Advisory Opinion 2024-01: A2L Refrigerants), recommending that the 2022 editions of ASHRAE Standards 15 & 34 be applied to refrigerant system design with the approval of local code officials.

If you have questions about how this impacts 9th and 10th Edition projects, please contact us at info@crcfire.com.

Application of any information provided, for any use, is at the reader’s risk and without liability to Code Red Consultants. Code Red Consultants does not warrant the accuracy of any information contained in this blog as applicable codes and standards change over time. The application, enforcement and interpretation of codes and standards may vary between Authorities Having Jurisdiction and for this reason, registered design professionals should be consulted to determine the appropriate application of codes and standards to a specific scope of work.