Nate Core Practice Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

R-410A is known for being less harmful to the ozone layer compared to its predecessors because it does not contain chlorine, which is a significant factor in ozone depletion. This refrigerant is categorized as a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) and has replaced older refrigerants like R-12 and R-22 that do contain chlorine and have higher ozone depletion potential (ODP).

The design of R-410A allows it to effectively provide cooling without contributing to ozone layer damage, aligning with global efforts to phase out ozone-depleting substances. In contrast, R-12 is a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) that has a high ozone depletion potential, while R-22, although it has a lower ODP than R-12, still contains chlorine, which makes it less environmentally friendly compared to R-410A. R-134A, while also an HFC and less harmful than R-12, is not as commonly used as R-410A in new installations as the industry has shifted towards the latter for improved efficiency and environmental compliance.