As a leader in thermal management, Pfannenberg delivers innovative solutions that protect people and the planet. For over 70 years, we’ve focused on creating environmentally responsible cooling units that meet the highest standards of safety and sustainability. We offer advanced products that help businesses comply with Global Warming Potential (GWP) regulations for a greener future.
Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), widely used as refrigerants, are potent greenhouse gases with a GWP far greater than carbon dioxide. Under the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act, the U.S. is reducing the production of HFCs to minimize their environmental impact. This phasedown targets industries where lower-GWP alternatives can meet strict climate goals.
In line with the AIM Act and EPA guidelines, Pfannenberg provides cooling solutions that use lower-GWP refrigerants. Our products support businesses in meeting regulatory standards while achieving sustainability targets. Below, you’ll find an overview of Pfannenberg’s refrigerant-based products and AIM Act compliance dates for manufacturing and import. Choose Pfannenberg for advanced thermal solutions that benefit both your business and the environment.
Understanding GWP and Thermal Management
Hydrofluorocarbons (HFC) – are gases used in variety of applications including air-conditioning system such as the active cooling unit and chillers manufactured by Pfannenberg. About 20year ago, Pfannenberg was one of the pioneer in our industry to switch away the use of refrigeration that could have ozone depleting potential to R134a refrigerant. Although, R134a has zero ozone depleting potential (ODP) it is still consider a greenhouse gas which contributes to the greenhouse effect.
Global Warming Potential (GWP) – is an index used to measure the relative impact of a greenhouse gas on global warming over a specific period, typically 100 years. GWP compares the heat-trapping ability of one unit of a given gas to that of carbon dioxide (CO₂), which has a baseline GWP of 1. For example, a refrigerant with a GWP of 500 contributes 500 times more to global warming per unit than CO₂. This index helps quantify and compare the environmental impact of various gases, guiding efforts to reduce emissions of high-GWP substances and mitigate climate change.
| Gases | GWP |
|---|---|
| CO2 | 1 |
| R134a | 1,430 |
| R407c | 1,774 |
| R410a | 2,088 |
| R513a | 630 |
Compliance with Applicable Regulations
United States
Federal Compliance
Pfannenberg cooling units sold in the United States are compliant with Federal regulations. When used in specific application stated within the federal regulations, Pfannenberg will have product to comply.
| Manufactured Products | Refrigerant GWP Requirement | Compliance Date |
|---|---|---|
| Chillers | <700 | January 1, 2026* |
| Data Center Equipment Cooling | <700 | January 1, 2027** |
California Compliance
Certain states in the United States, like California, have established their own regulations and compliance criteria. Pfannenberg offers a broad range of products that meet these state-specific requirements, ensuring availability on or before the required effective dates
| Installation of Products | Refrigerant GWP Requirement | Compliance Date |
|---|---|---|
| Chillers | <750 | January 1, 2024*** |
| Air-Conditioning (New) Equipment | <750 | January 1, 2025*** |
Canada
Federal Compliance
Pfannenberg cooling units fully comply with Canada’s Ozone-Depleting Substances and Halocarbon Alternatives Regulations (ODSHAR). Currently, our chillers are not yet compliant, but extensive research and development efforts are underway to ensure they meet all regulatory standards soon.
| Installation of Products | Refrigerant GWP Requirement | Compliance Date |
|---|---|---|
| Chillers | <750 | January 1, 2025** |
GWP Compliant Products
Pfannenberg offers a range of products with lower GWP refrigerant that are outlined below. For customers who would like to learn more, please contact your local representative or our applications engineering team to ensure your appropriate compliance needs are met.
| Product | Capacity (BTU/hr) | More Info |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling Units | 900-1300 | DTS 3021/31 |
| 2000-3000 | DTS 30x1 | |
| 3000-4000 | DTS 31x1 | |
| 4000-5000 | Contact Pfannenberg for p/n | |
| 7000-8500 | Contact Pfannenberg for p/n | |
| 15000-20000 | Contact Pfannenberg for p/n | |
| 20000-40000 | Contact Pfannenberg for p/n | |
| Air/Air Heat Exchanger | Various | PKS |
| Chiller | Various | Liquid Cooling |
Additional Product Options
Pfannenberg also provides enclosure cooling solutions that use no refrigerants, without harmful greenhouse gases and often lower energy consumption. These eco-friendly products are an ideal choice for sustainable thermal management.
Click below to contact Pfannenberg for the best technology to meet your thermal and environmental requirements.
Regulations and Compliance
US GWP Compliance
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EU GWP Compliance
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