The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed Rule 27 under its Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program to update or establish use conditions for several refrigerants, including hydrocarbons, in residential and light-commercial air-conditioning and heat pumps.
The proposal covers eight refrigerants, including propane (R290), R441A, HFC-32, and several HFO blends such as HFO-1234yf. It introduces, for the first time, conditions for the use of HCR 4141, HFO-1234ze(E), and R-516 in HVAC systems. EPA is seeking comments on whether use conditions should align with UL Standard 60335-2-40, 4th edition, or be based on certification by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) accredited by OSHA.
Additionally, the proposed rule updates use conditions for R290 in new water coolers (with reference to UL Standard 399, 8th edition) and introduces new conditions for HCR 4141 in household refrigerators and freezers (UL Standard 60335-2-24, 3rd edition). It also proposes conditions for HFO-1234yf and other HFO blends in chillers and vehicle air-conditioning systems.
The SNAP program allows EPA to evaluate alternatives to ozone-depleting substances and HFCs under the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act. Rule 27 is part of broader efforts to support the adoption of low-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants.
EPA is accepting public comments for 45 days following the rule’s publication in the Federal Register and may hold a virtual public hearing if requested.
