What kind of freon to use on a heat pump?

Question

What kind of freon to use on a heat pump?

Answer 1

Freons are no longer used.

In an A/C system, the old refrigerant/heating compounds were generally CFC's (Chloro-Fluoro-Carbons). These have been phased out due to their effect on the environment and on the depletion of the Ozone layer.

The one I'm familiar with is 'Freon 22'. (chloro-difluoro-methane. CHClF2.) Also used for the Heat Pump cycle. (There are other CFC  products).

The new refrigerant, (also the substance used for the Heat Pump cycle), is considerered to be more Eco-friendly and now consists of HFC's (Hydro-Fluoro-Carbons). Again, the one I'm familiar with is 'Puron' R410A. consisting of 50% CH2F2, (di-fluoromethane) and (50% C2HF5), (penta-fluoroethane).    

(There are other HFC products).

(The Heat Pump cycle is achieved by by-passing the compressor after-cooler/condenser coils and the refrigerant expansion valve and, thereby not cooling and condensing and expanding the refrigerant gas (The refrigeration cycle).

The hot, compressed gas is piped directly through the evaporator coils exchanging heat with the circulating cool air from the area being heated. (The Heat Cycle)).