The escalating demand for sustainable, energy-efficient, and environmentally conscious cooling technologies presents a compelling business case for CO₂ refrigeration. And U.S. businesses are taking notice.

In the ongoing battle against climate change, the U.S. supermarket sector is relentlessly pursuing innovative strategies to reduce its carbon footprint and enhance energy efficiency.

CO₂ refrigeration (R-744) was selected to cool four ice rinks at the Winter Olympics, curbing carbon emissions to the tune of 1.2 million planted trees.

The commercial and industrial refrigeration sector is going green. This evolution is largely dictated by corporate environmental, social, and governance efforts; the demand for greater energy efficiency; government regulations; net-zero energy goals; and more.

The proper design, installation, and maintenance of these valves is vital for the safe operation of R-744 refrigeration systems, especially in industrial and commercial applications.

Compiled via interviews with a team of experts, here are the steps one should follow when charging a CO₂ refrigeration system.

As more and more case-controlled facilities turn to CO₂ refrigeration, HVAC contractors are tasked with adequately educating themselves on these systems so that they can meet the country’s budding installation and service needs.

While CO₂ refrigerant may not be as deadly to the environment as its HFC peers, there are other concerns that exist when it escapes a system.

CO₂ systems’ environmental benefits and ability to meet any future regulations make them an optimal option for contractors and facility managers.

A pending global hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) phasedown and additional efficiency regulations have bolstered R-744’s position in the American food retail market, further accelerating interest in the refrigerant’s unique benefits.