What type of refrigerant is often preferred due to its low global warming potential?

The preference for R-410A as a refrigerant is largely due to its low global warming potential (GWP) compared to other refrigerants. R-410A has a GWP that is significantly lower than many traditional refrigerants, making it a more environmentally friendly choice. It is a blend of two hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and has replaced R-22 in many applications, especially in new air conditioning systems, as part of a broader initiative to phase out substances that contribute to ozone depletion and global warming.

In the context of the other refrigerants listed, R-22 and R-12 have been shown to have higher GWPs and are also associated with ozone depletion, which has led to their phasedown under various environmental regulations, such as the Montreal Protocol. R-134A, while better than R-22 and R-12 regarding ozone depletion, still has a higher GWP than R-410A, which is why it is not considered as favorable for new systems today.

Thus, R-410A stands out as the refrigerant that contributes less to global warming, making it a preferred choice in modern heating and cooling systems.