R32 vs R410A
Global warming potential figures are the commonly quoted IPCC 100-year values. R32 is replacing R410A in new wall splits because it needs less gas and has about a third of the climate impact.
| R32 | R410A | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Single refrigerant | Blend of R32 and R125 |
| Global warming potential | About 675 | About 2,088 |
| Charge needed | Less for the same cooling | More |
| Safety class | A2L, mildly flammable; needs trained installers | A1, non-flammable |
| Used in | Most new wall splits | Many commercial and older models |
Which Daikin models use which
- R32: the FTXC-D inverters, the FTV-C and FTY-C non-inverters, and the FCC/FCY cassettes and FDMC/FDMY ceiling concealed units.
- R410A: the FTXA inverter and most FCQ, FCQN and FDMQ commercial models.
- Each product page lists the refrigerant under specifications.
Does an AC need gas filling every year?
No. The gas runs in a sealed circuit and is not used up. If an AC is short of gas, it has a leak, usually at a joint, a flare nut or a damaged pipe. Topping it up without fixing the leak only buys time, and the gas escapes again.
A proper repair finds and fixes the leak, then vacuums the system and charges the correct amount of the correct gas, by weight, as stated on the unit's label.
Signs your AC may be low on gas
- It runs for a long time but blows only mildly cool air.
- Ice or frost on the copper pipes or the indoor coil.
- An oily mark where the pipes connect.
- Check the simple things first: a dirty filter or blocked outdoor unit cause the same symptoms.
Never mix gases
An R32 unit must only be charged with R32, and an R410A unit with R410A. Mixing refrigerants or using the wrong one can damage the compressor and void the warranty.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, R32 or R410A?
For new home splits, R32: it needs less gas, is efficient, and has about a third of R410A's climate impact. R410A remains common in commercial units. Both work well when installed correctly.
How often does an AC need gas?
A correctly installed AC should not need gas at all. If it does, there is a leak to find and fix before recharging.
Can R32 be added to an R410A AC?
No. Always use the refrigerant printed on the unit's label. Mixing gases can damage the compressor.
