Introduction
Hey there — Mike Sanders here. Today, we’re tackling a topic that’s become increasingly important as we all look for greener, more cost-effective ways to stay cool: refrigerants. Specifically, we’ll explore R-32 refrigerant and why it’s making waves in the world of through-the-wall air conditioners.
If you’re reading this, you probably already know that your through-the-wall unit is an affordable and effective way to cool your home. But you might not realize that the refrigerant circulating inside that unit plays a huge role in its performance — and in its impact on your utility bills and the planet.
In this article, I’ll explain what R-32 refrigerant is, why it’s better for energy efficiency and emissions, and how choosing an R-32 equipped AC can put money back in your pocket. Ready to dive in? Let’s go.
🌍 What Is R-32 Refrigerant?
R-32 is a next-generation refrigerant that’s being adopted across the HVAC industry as a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional refrigerants like R-410A. Technically known as difluoromethane (CH₂F₂), R-32 is a single-component refrigerant, making it easier to recycle and recharge.
More importantly, R-32 refrigerant carries a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 675 — about one-third the GWP of R-410A. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), choosing refrigerants with lower GWP is one of the most straightforward ways to reduce the environmental footprint of heating and cooling systems.
⚡ Why Energy Efficiency Is Crucial
You already know that ACs can rack up some serious kilowatt-hours during the summer. Efficiency matters because it translates directly into money saved on energy bills — and lower emissions.
When we talk about energy-efficient ACs, we typically look at two big ratings:
✅ EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) — Measures cooling output relative to energy consumption at peak use
✅ SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) — Measures average performance over an entire cooling season
Through-the-wall ACs with R-32 refrigerant often have higher SEER and EER ratings compared to units using older refrigerants. Why? R-32’s superior thermodynamic properties mean the unit can transfer heat more effectively. That means the compressor and fan don’t have to work as hard — which reduces energy consumption.
And that’s not all. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends investing in Energy Star-certified ACs because they use up to 10% less energy than standard models. Choosing R-32 refrigerant is a smart step toward reaching these energy savings goals.
💸 How R-32 Refrigerant Cuts Your Energy Bills
There are a few big reasons why switching to an R-32 refrigerant-equipped unit can put dollars back in your pocket:
🌡️ Improved Heat Transfer
R-32 has higher latent heat capacity — which means it carries heat more efficiently. That efficiency allows the AC unit to cool a space faster with less energy, reducing the number of compressor cycles and wear on the system.
🌪️ Lower Refrigerant Charge
You need less R-32 refrigerant per ton of cooling. That lower refrigerant charge means less strain on the compressor and fewer chances for leaks. Fewer leaks = fewer service calls and less refrigerant lost to the environment.
📉 High Energy Efficiency Ratings
Most R-32-equipped ACs hit EER and SEER targets that qualify them for utility rebates. According to Energy Star, high-efficiency ACs can reduce your electricity consumption by hundreds of dollars per year over the life of the unit.
🌱 Environmental Benefits of R-32
One of the most compelling reasons to go with R-32 is its vastly lower environmental impact.
🌍 Lower Global Warming Potential
R-32’s GWP of 675 is about 68% lower than R-410A’s GWP of 2,088. Reducing the refrigerant GWP is one of the most straightforward ways to fight climate change at home.
💨 Zero Ozone Depletion
Unlike legacy refrigerants like R-22, R-32 doesn’t contribute to ozone layer depletion. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency outlines that R-32 meets stringent environmental regulations and is part of a global transition to greener refrigerants.
🏠 Through-The-Wall ACs: Designed for Efficiency
Through-the-wall units are already one of the most practical cooling solutions for small spaces, additions, or rooms that can’t support central AC. They fit snugly into a wall sleeve and don’t take up floor or window space.
When you pair that compact design with R-32 refrigerant, you get a powerhouse that:
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Cools faster and more evenly due to better refrigerant heat exchange
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Cycles less often, extending compressor lifespan
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Runs quieter and smoother, making it ideal for bedrooms and offices
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Uses less energy, which can help you qualify for rebates and tax credits
And if you’d like to explore what kinds of rebates might be available in your area, this Department of Energy tax credit and rebate finder can help you check what’s on offer.
🔧 What to Look for When Choosing an R-32 Equipped Unit
Shopping for a new through-the-wall AC with R-32 refrigerant? Here are some key features to look for:
✅ High EER/SEER Rating: A higher rating means less electricity consumption for the same cooling output.
✅ Quiet Operation: Brands like Friedrich and LG offer R-32 units with enhanced soundproofing.
✅ Smart Controls: Some premium models feature Wi-Fi control and energy-saving modes.
✅ Proper Wall Sleeve Fit: Ensure your unit matches the existing wall sleeve or select a universal sleeve.
✅ Professional Installation Options: Installing a through-the-wall unit properly can boost efficiency and lifespan — especially with R-32 refrigerant, which requires correct handling.
If you want to compare brands and models, our through-the-wall AC collection at The Furnace Outlet is a great place to start.
🧑🔧 Maintaining Your R-32 Through-the-Wall AC
One of the benefits of R-32 refrigerant is that it’s stable and requires less frequent recharges — especially if your unit is properly installed and well-maintained.
That said, good maintenance will help you protect your investment and reduce energy use even further:
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Clean or replace filters regularly — dirty filters restrict airflow and strain the unit
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Check drain lines — clogged drains can cause water buildup and reduce performance
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Inspect seals around the sleeve — prevent drafts that make your AC work harder
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Schedule professional service — yearly tune-ups help you catch refrigerant leaks and minor issues before they become costly repairs
For more guidance, the EPA’s repair and maintenance checklist is an invaluable resource.
🧭 Future-Proofing Your Home Cooling
The HVAC industry is moving toward lower-GWP refrigerants. By choosing an R-32 equipped AC today, you’re future-proofing your home cooling for years to come — avoiding the headaches of refrigerant phaseouts and supply shortages that plagued R-22 and R-410A.
R-32 also prepares you for any stricter refrigerant policies and regional efficiency requirements that may come into effect in the future. That means your through-the-wall unit will stay compliant and serviceable well into its lifespan.
🎯 Final Thoughts
Whether you want to save on your electric bills, reduce your carbon footprint, or simply invest in a reliable, future-ready cooling solution, a through-the-wall AC equipped with R-32 refrigerant is a smart choice.
Thanks to its lower Global Warming Potential, higher efficiency, and broad compatibility with modern systems, R-32 refrigerant is setting the standard for years to come. It’s a small change that can make a big difference — for your home, your wallet, and the planet.
If you’re ready to shop for your next unit or need help choosing the right R-32 equipped model, check out the full selection at The Furnace Outlet. Our team is always here to help you make the best choice for your home.
