R32 (difluoromethane) is a single-species A2L refrigerant with low flammability and a GWP of 675. GWP (Global Warming Potential) expresses the refrigerant's potential to contribute to global warming compared to CO₂, whose GWP is defined as 1 - so R32 warms the atmosphere 675 times more than the same amount of CO₂. Compared to older refrigerants (e.g. R410A with a GWP of 2088) it is thus more environmentally friendly. R32 offers higher cooling capacity per unit weight and allows for smaller charge. Due to better thermal transfer, it increases efficiency and reduces operating costs. However, it requires compliance with EN 378 safety limits, appropriate ventilation and leak detection in small spaces. The service technician must use R32 compatible pressure gauges and vacuum pumps.
