Refrigerant Types and Uses for Refrigerators and Air Conditioners

This article explores refrigerant types in refrigerators & air conditioners, explaining their function and eco-friendly options.
Explore Refrigerators and ACs Online
6 min
28-May-2024

Modern life heavily relies on keeping things cool, from the food in our refrigerators to the air in our homes. This cooling magic is achieved through a special type of fluid called a refrigerant. Refrigerators and air conditioners use refrigerants to absorb heat from a designated space and release it elsewhere, creating a cooling effect.

You can browse through a range of refrigerators and ACs on Bajaj Mall. Alternatively, head over to one of the Bajaj Finserv partner stores to buy the AC/ refrigerator you have your eye on. Use the Bajaj Finserv Network Card and benefit from exclusive deals and offers.

How does a refrigerator operate?

  1. The cycle begins: Inside a refrigerator, the refrigerant exists as a low-pressure gas. This gas is compressed by a pump, which increases its pressure and temperature.
  2. Heat transfer: The high-pressure, hot refrigerant gas travels through coils on the back of the refrigerator. Here, it releases its heat into the surrounding environment, causing the gas to condense into a high-pressure liquid.
  3. Expansion and cooling: The liquid refrigerant then passes through a narrow valve, which significantly reduces its pressure. This rapid pressure drop causes the liquid to vaporise (turn back into a gas) and absorb heat from the refrigerator's interior in the process. This is why the inside of the fridge feels cold.
  4. Repeating the cycle: The low-pressure, cool gas then returns to the compressor, and the cycle repeats, continuously removing heat from the refrigerator's interior.

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Types of refrigerants for fridges and air conditioners

  • Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs): These are the most common refrigerants used today in both refrigerators and air conditioners. They are less harmful to the ozone layer compared to older types but still contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Examples include R-134a and R-404A.
  • Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs): Once widely used, HCFCs are being phased out due to their ozone-depleting properties. While not as damaging as older refrigerants, they are still being replaced with more environmentally friendly options.
  • Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs): These were the first commercially used refrigerants but were banned due to their severe impact on the ozone layer. They are no longer used in new appliances.
  • Ammonia: This natural refrigerant offers excellent efficiency and minimal environmental impact. However, it is toxic and flammable, limiting its use in domestic appliances.
  • Hydrocarbons (HCs): These are natural refrigerants like propane and isobutane. They are highly efficient and environmentally friendly but can be flammable, requiring special safety considerations in their application.

Uses of refrigerants for fridges and air conditioners

  • Maintaining food safety: In refrigerators, refrigerants play a crucial role in maintaining low temperatures that slow down bacterial growth, keeping food fresh and safe for consumption.
  • Controlling indoor climate: Air conditioners use refrigerants to remove heat and moisture from the air, creating a cool and comfortable environment in homes and buildings.
  • Commercial applications: Refrigeration plays a vital role in various industries, from food preservation and transportation to medical storage and chemical processes. Here too, refrigerants are essential for maintaining low temperatures.
  • Industrial cooling: Large industrial facilities often rely on powerful refrigeration systems to cool machinery and processes that generate significant heat. Refrigerants are the workhorses behind these crucial cooling applications.

By understanding the different types and uses of refrigerants, we can appreciate their importance in modern living and make informed choices about the appliances we use. As technology advances, the development of even more environmentally friendly and efficient refrigerants will continue to play a key role in creating a sustainable future.

However, if you are on the lookout for an AC or a refrigerator, you can head over to Bajaj Mall do your research before heading to a partner store and purchasing the desired model.

Financing options with Bajaj Finserv

Bajaj Finserv offers a convenient way to finance your purchase of a refrigerator or an AC. Here is how it works:

  • Research: Bajaj Mall is an excellent resource for learning about the features, specifications, and reviews of an AC or refrigerator. Once you have all the information, visit your nearest Bajaj Finserv partner store.
  • Select the appliance: Choose the specific model of refrigerator or AC that you want to purchase.
  • Use the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card: If you have a pre-approved Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card, you can use it to make the purchase. This card allows you to split the cost of the appliance into convenient, interest-free EMIs (Equal monthly instalments).

Advantages of shopping with the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card

  • No Cost EMI benefits: With the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card, you can convert large purchases into manageable, bite-sized EMIs without any additional interest.
  • Exciting deals and offers: Shopping with the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card grants you exclusive access to exciting discounts and cashback rewards on your purchases.
  • Zero down payment benefits: Purchase a split AC or other products covered under the zero down payment policy without needing to make a lump-sum deposit.
  • Limitless options: Enjoy a hassle-free shopping experience at more than a lakh of partner stores across cities across the country, choosing from more than a million products available on the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network.

Bajaj Finserv app for all your financial needs and goals

Trusted by 50 million+ customers in India, Bajaj Finserv App is a one-stop solution for all your financial needs and goals.

You can use the Bajaj Finserv App to:

  • Apply for loans online, such as Instant Personal Loan, Home Loan, Business Loan, Gold Loan, and more.
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  • Choose from multiple insurance for your health, motor and even pocket insurance, from various insurance providers.
  • Pay and manage your bills and recharges using the BBPS platform. Use Bajaj Pay and Bajaj Wallet for quick and simple money transfers and transactions.
  • Apply for Insta EMI Card and get a pre-qualified limit on the app. Explore over 1 million products on the app that can be purchased from a partner store on Easy EMIs.
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Download the Bajaj Finserv App today and experience the convenience of managing your finances on one app.

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Frequently asked questions

Which gas is used in ACs and fridges?
Refrigerators and air conditioners commonly use refrigerant gases like R-134a, R-600a, or R-410A. These gases facilitate the cooling process by absorbing and releasing heat. The specific gas used depends on the appliance type and environmental regulations.
Which refrigerant is used in a refrigerator?
Modern refrigerators often use R-134a or R-600a as refrigerants. R-134a is a hydrofluorocarbon known for its efficiency and stability, while R-600a, a hydrocarbon, is preferred for its low global warming potential and energy efficiency.
How long does refrigerant gas last in a refrigerator?
Refrigerant gas in a refrigerator can last for many years, typically the appliance's entire lifespan, if there are no leaks or damage to the system. Proper maintenance ensures the refrigerant remains effective throughout its usage.
Can a fridge work without gas?
A fridge cannot function without refrigerant gas. The refrigerant is essential for the cooling cycle, as it absorbs and releases heat to maintain low temperatures. Without it, the refrigerator cannot cool its contents.
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