CO₂, or R-744, is a natural, non-toxic, and non-flammable refrigerant with no net greenhouse gas effect. It provides the optimum balance of performance, efficiency and safety, ideal for both new installations and retrofits of existing systems. As a natural substance with minimal impact on the environment, it’s unlikely to be phased out (which can be quite a costly endeavor). It is non-corrosive with most materials, and a good option for R-22 (Freon) replacements.
We never tire of recommending CO₂ as a consideration for your next refrigeration system. However, we realize that there are many questions concerning this refrigerant that go unanswered. While we strongly recommend contacting us directly for any specific queries, we thought we would compile a series of questions we have recently received about CO₂. Hope this helps clear up some of the common doubts!CO₂ Vs. Ammonia

• How is the day-to-day operation of a CO₂ system similar to or different from an ammonia system?  (For example: draining/adding oil, condenser/cooling tower maintenance and sanitization, etc.)

  In a CO₂ system, there is no oil to add or drain. The outdoor condenser will be a cooling tower, so typical maintenance for such a piece of equipment is similar to other Ecochill plants with cooling towers. This includes a water treatment system, and annual cleaning and sanitation of the cooling tower. 

• How does the life span of a CO₂ system compare to an ammonia system?

  The life span is very similar. All components are replaceable without requiring major renovation. Compressors are low-cost unitary equipment (vs overhauls), and multiple glycol chillers can be replace. All of the piping is stainless steel, so no rust and insulation would be armaflex covered with PVC.

• How often will CO₂ need to be charged to the system? What would this cost (compared to ammonia)?

  CO₂ would never need to be charged to the system unless service requires emptying the charge for a major reparation (which is an unlikely scenario). In case of a leak, the charge for a 160 TR system would be around 500 lbs. The price of CO₂ is between $2-$3 per pound.

• In an indirect C0₂ system, is the glycol/brine system the same as would be used for an indirect ammonia system (header trench, under ice piping, etc.)?

  In other words, if we were to install a CO₂/glycol indirect system today, and decide in the future to replace the system with an ammonia/glycol indirect system, can the underfloor glycol piping remain as is? Could we just disconnect the CO₂ system and swap it out with an ammonia system?Absolutely. The glycol circuits would not be affected and will have no impact. In fact, the cooling tower supplied as the condenser in an R6 plant could remain and be used with an ammonia package replacement. 

• Since CO₂ is not self-alarming, what extra safety measures are needed?

  Please refer to the R744 Safety Data Sheet:

CIMCO-Specific

• What are the warranty package options for CO₂ and ammonia refrigeration systems with heat recovery?

       All CIMCO systems have a 1-year warranty from start-up material, parts and labor.

• Other than onsite training by the installer, what certificates or training courses are available on C0₂ refrigeration systems in Ontario?

       Emerson does CO2 Training in Brantford on the entire system. CIMCO provides system training for customers after the installation is complete. We would go over the day-to-day maintenance requirements for the system. Bitzer offers training and classes on CO₂ compressors, and we also have chiller braze plate glycol training from Ala-Laval.