What can I do?

A win-win purchase

Your choice of equipment can make a real difference and become a win-win situation for you and our climate. Opting for equipment that consumes contains a climate-friendly refrigerants and consumes less electricity is essential. Find out which refrigerants you should look for and how to identify energy-efficient air-conditioning systems or heat pumps. This knowledge can save you money and contribute to saving ourtackling climate change. 

Which refrigerant should you look for?

Look for the type of refrigerant used in the equipment you are interested in. It should be indicated on the label of the equipment, advertisement, or instruction manual if the refrigerant is an F-gas. Pay attention also to the indicated Global Warming Potential (GWP) of the refrigerant, which classifies the impact of the gas on our climate: The lower the GWP, the better it is for the climate. Should you choose an air-conditioning or heat pump that contains an F-gas, avoid gases with a GWP above 675. Preferred alternatives to F-gases are hydrocarbons like propane with a GWP of only 0.02, carbon dioxide (CO₂), or ammonia (0 GWP).

Identifying F-gases in equipment labels is essential as it empowers consumers to make informed choices that benefit both their budget and the environment. F-gases, commonly found in refrigerants, contribute significantly to global warming, depending on their Global Warming Potential (GWP). Equipment labels indicate the type of refrigerant used and its GWP value, enabling you to assess the environmental impact of the product. By choosing refrigerants with a lower GWP, such as propane or carbon dioxide, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint.

Example of a standard equipment label containing F-gases

Example of correct labelling: 

Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), the most common F-gas refrigerants, are gradually being reduced in the EU by a quota system that significantly restricts their access to the EU market. The aim of the system is to phase HFCs out by 2050. This means that HFC prices, which are already very high in the EU, and w will likely increase further. Thus, if you buy new equipment using HFCs and later have some refrigerant added to your equipment to work correctly, the refrigerant will likely be expensive.and need additional refrigerant to ensure proper functioning, the refrigerant will likely be expensive.

ATTENTION: Sometimes there are some safety requirements where you live, implying that you can only use an F-gas.

How can you identify energy-efficient equipment?

Although initial costs for energy-efficient equipment may be higher, the long-term savings on your energy bill will make the investment worthwhile. Look at the energy label to ensure you buy the most energy-efficient equipment. 

For more information on energy-efficient equipment, visit the EU Ecodesign and Energy Label.

Certified Technicians

Always consult technicians with an F-gas certificate who specialise in the refrigerant being used for installing refrigerant pipes - even if the air-conditioning or heat pump refrigerant is not an F-gas. This is because some alternatives to F-gases can be toxic, flammable or under high pressure. Certified technicians have the necessary skills and tools to install such equipment safely. 

For other equipment; the contained refrigerant circulates between different parts (split systems) and requires a refrigerant pipe connection during installation. If your new equipment requires such a refrigerant pipe connection, you should not install it yourself and, instead, consult a technician with an F-gas Certificate.

Preventing emissions

Regularly check for leaks and ensure certified technicians do repairs to prevent F-gas emissions.

Proper disposal

Ensure old equipment is disposed of by certified professionals according to EU waste rules. This prevents environmental contamination and ensures proper handling of hazardous materials.

Fridges and freezers

New models in the EU do not use F-gases. When purchasing new appliances, opt for the most energy-efficient models. Dispose of old equipment responsibly to prevent environmental harm.

Insulation foam panels

Older insulation foam panels may contain F-gases or ozone-depleting substances. Ensure qualified personnel remove and dispose of these materials during renovation or demolition activities.

F-gas usage

Cars bought before 2017 likely contain high GWP F-gases. Newer cars use more climate-friendly alternatives. Ensure that trained professionals carry outdo any repairs or refills to avoid illegal and harmful practices.

Repair and refill

Only trained professionals should repair and refill car AC systems. Avoid using illegally imported F-gases to prevent environmental harm and potential health risks.

Asthma sprays

Some asthma sprays use F-gases as propellants, which contribute to climate change. Where possible, use dry powder inhalers. New, more climate-friendly sprays are expected to be commercialised by 2025. Consult with your doctor to determine the best option for your health needs.

Insulation foam

During renovations, avoid emissions from old insulation foam panels by ensuring proper handling and disposal by qualified individuals. This helps prevent the release of F-gases and ozone-depleting substances into the atmosphere.

What are PFAS? 

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) include many fluorinated compounds valued for their ability to repel water, grease, and oil. They are widely used in various industrial and consumer products, like in some non-stick pans.

Environmental and health concerns

PFAS are known as "forever chemicals" due to their persistence in the organisms of animals, plants and people. They are resistant to degradation and have been detected in soil, water, air, wildlife, and humans worldwide. Exposure to PFAS can:

• affect human reproduction and harm the development of foetuses.
• interfere with human endocrine (hormonal) systems.
• cause cancer in humans.

Steps to Reduce Exposure:

• Consult local authorities: Obtain information on PFAS detection in water supplies from local water authorities.
• Install water filtration systems: Use systems proven to reduce PFAS levels.
• Health advisory lists: Refer to local health advisory lists to identify food products known to be contaminated with PFAS.
• Choose PFAS-free products: Whenever possible, purchase products without PFAS. Common items that may contain PFAS include non-stick pans (replace with stainless steel), grease-resistant packaging (e.g. fast-food containers, candy wrappers), water-resistant clothing, cleaning products, shampoos, cosmetics, paints, varnishes, and sealants. Look for terms like "fluorinated" or "PTFE" (polytetrafluoroethylene) on labels. Some products are already labelled as PFAS-free.

Policy support

Advocate for policies and regulations that phase out F-gases and promote environmentally friendly alternatives. Supporting companies that commit to reducing F-gas use is also crucial.

Awareness and education

Educate yourself and others on F-gas policies and technological advancements. Staying informed and spreading awareness can significantly contribute to reducing F-gas emissions.

By making informed choices and advocating for better policies, we can collectively reduce F-gas emissions and contribute to a healthier planet.