Parking AC low-GWP refrigerant transition — R454C, R32 and the EU F-Gas roadmap

• Table of Contents

1. EU F-Gas Phase-Down timeline and CARB regulations
2. R454C and R32 — performance and safety profile
3. Implications for fleet buyers and service workshops
4. Vethy approach to low-GWP refrigerant adoption

EU F-Gas Phase-Down and California CARB regulations are driving the rooftop parking AC industry away from R134a (GWP 1,430) toward low-GWP refrigerants R454C (GWP 148) and R32 (GWP 675). Fleet buyers specifying new units for 2026 and beyond should understand the transition timeline, performance implications and procurement considerations.

EU F-Gas Phase-Down timeline and CARB regulations

EU F-Gas regulation reduces HFC supply by 79% between 2015 and 2030, with strict phase-down quotas pushing manufacturers to low-GWP refrigerants. California CARB and other US state regulators are following similar trajectories. R134a will become progressively scarcer and more expensive through 2027–2030.

R454C and R32 — performance and safety profile

R454C (GWP 148): A2L (mildly flammable), strong COP, similar pressure to R134a making retrofit feasible. R32 (GWP 675): A2L, well-established in residential split AC, requires updated leak detection and service procedures. Both deliver cooling performance comparable to R134a with proper system design.

Implications for fleet buyers and service workshops

New parking AC units shipped from 2026 onward will increasingly use R454C or R32. Service workshops need updated leak-detection equipment, A2L-compatible recovery machines and updated training. Plan retrofits and new installs around units already shipped with low-GWP refrigerant to avoid mid-life refrigerant transition cost.

Vethy approach to low-GWP refrigerant adoption

Vethy is progressively transitioning its product line to R454C across 2026 and 2027 model years. Distribution partners receive training on A2L service procedures, leak detection equipment specifications and safety updates. Fleet buyers specifying 25+ units can request low-GWP variant availability through Vethy export sales.

Frequently asked questions

When will R134a parking AC units be phased out?

EU F-Gas Phase-Down drives R134a scarcity through 2027–2030. Most manufacturers are transitioning new model production to R454C/R32 across 2026–2027.

Are R454C and R32 safe for sleeper cabin installation?

Yes when installed per manufacturer guidelines. A2L refrigerants are mildly flammable but have well-established safety procedures in residential and mobile AC applications.

Can I retrofit my existing R134a unit to R454C?

Not generally recommended. R454C requires system-design optimisation for best performance and safety. Plan retrofit at end-of-life rather than mid-life refrigerant swap.