Friedrich Introduces First Room Air Conditioners with Zero Ozone Depletion and Lowest Global Warming Potential to U.S. Market

SAN ANTONIO, Texas–This summer, Friedrich, a leading air conditioning manufacturer, is making it easier than ever to keep cool all while combating climate change.

The company is the first in the U.S. to unveil room air conditioners for residential and light commercial customers that utilize a more environmentally sustainable refrigerant called R32. Benefits of R32 include significantly reduced global warming potential (GWP) and zero ozone depletion potential (ODP). R32 also helps increase energy efficiency.

Six window room air conditioner models in Friedrich’s Chill® line and five through-the-wall air conditioner models in Friedrich’s Uni-Fit® line using R32 are now available, and meet the most recent ENERGY STAR-qualified standards.

Friedrich is ahead of the curve in the use of R32 as today, most room air conditioners use a refrigerant known at R410A, a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC). R32 has just one-third of the GWP of R410A. Other advantages include higher operating efficiencies, meaning units that use R32 refrigerant consume less power as compared to similar units with R410A. Also, units utilizing R32 require significantly less refrigerant volume in the system, reducing the total amount of refrigerant needed–another strong environmental advantage.

While new to the U.S., globally, R32 has been used for more than ten years in countries throughout Europe and other parts of the world. It is estimated that more than ten million air conditioners using R32 have been sold to date. In preparing for greater adoption, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) have created a new subclass to technically classify the very low degree of flammability risk associated with the use of R32 in air conditioning applications.

Known for innovation and rigorous testing, including an extensive onsite lab facility where product research, performance, stress and safety measurements are done, Friedrich has conducted additional R32 tests for the last few years and is confident that the U.S. market is ready for a more sustainable solution.

“This is a major advancement when it comes to offering a more energy-efficient, environmentally responsible air conditioning choice,” said TJ Wheeler, VP Marketing and Product Management for Friedrich. “We are excited to be able to give customers a great option that also delivers exceptional performance.”

Friedrich products, including Chill and Uni-Fit lines, can be purchased via qualified dealers and distributors throughout the U.S. For more information, visit www.friedrich.com

About Friedrich
Founded in 1883, Friedrich has manufactured room air conditioners since 1952. Friedrich is a leading manufacturer of air conditioners and other home environment products. Constructed of the highest quality components, Friedrich products are built to exacting standards and are among the quietest, most highly featured and most energy-efficient available. If you demand the best, it has to be Friedrich. For more information, please visit www.friedrich.com.

SOURCE: Friedrich