What is the consequence of mixing incompatible refrigerants?

Mixing incompatible refrigerants can lead to significant safety hazards. When different refrigerants are combined, they may have chemical reactions that generate toxic byproducts, create flammable mixtures, or result in harmful pressure increases within the system. This chemical incompatibility can also lead to the failure of the system components, such as compressors or evaporators, which can pose risks of leaks or explosions.

In addition to safety concerns, mixed refrigerants compromise system performance and efficiency, as they may alter the thermodynamic properties of the refrigerant blend, negatively affecting cooling capabilities. Furthermore, maintenance or repair efforts would be complicated, requiring a more extensive procedure to safely recover and dispose of the blended refrigerant.

Recognizing these risks underscores the importance of using the correct type of refrigerant specified for HVAC systems, as only compatible refrigerants should be used to ensure safe and efficient operation.