Refrigerant prices can vary significantly based on factors such as location, supply and demand, regulations, and market conditions. Therefore, it's crucial to check current prices from reliable sources to get the most accurate and up-to-date information.
However, R404A was generally more expensive than R134a and R410A. This price difference was primarily due to environmental concerns and regulations surrounding the global warming potential (GWP) of refrigerants.
R404A is a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerant commonly used in commercial refrigeration and air conditioning systems. It has a relatively high GWP, which means it has a significant impact on global warming if released into the atmosphere. As a result, many countries and regions have been phasing out or limiting the use of high-GWP refrigerants like R404A, leading to a decrease in supply and an increase in its price.
R134a is also an HFC refrigerant but has a lower GWP compared to R404A. It has been used in automotive air conditioning systems and some residential and commercial cooling applications. Due to its lower GWP, R134a has faced less scrutiny and regulatory pressure, which has generally kept its price lower than R404A.
R410A, on the other hand, is a hydrofluorocarbon blend used in air conditioning systems. It has a higher GWP than R134a but is still considered more environmentally friendly than R404A. R410A has been widely adopted in the HVAC industry, especially in new equipment, as it complies with many environmental regulations and has become more affordable due to its widespread use.
Since refrigerant prices can fluctuate, it's essential to consult local suppliers or market reports for the most current information on refrigerant prices and availability. Additionally, as environmental regulations continue to evolve, the demand for and pricing of different refrigerants may change accordingly.