Why CO2 Refrigerant Is Ideal for Supermarkets

Back in 2012, Supermarket News called CO2 the "refrigerant of the future." At the time, the food distribution magazine suggested that switching to CO2 refrigerant could be a great way to limit the effect of supermarkets on global warming. Today we know this to be true. Let's take a closer look at why CO2 refrigerant is ideal for supermarkets:

1. Energy savings

According to MACED.org, "Refrigeration accounts for at least 60% of the average grocery's energy
use." CO2 makes for an energy- and cost-efficient refrigeration system. That's because the refrigerant is widely available and has a high volumetric cooling capacity, setting it apart from more traditional refrigerants. We anticipate annual savings of as much as one-fifth of your energy bill when you switch to transcritical CO2 refrigeration systems, for example.

2. Environmental responsibility

"It is ironic that CO2, which is the most common greenhouse gas and much vilified in the media as the main cause of global warming, should in fact be regarded as an environmentally benign refrigerant," states the Green Cooling Association. But because most HFC refrigerants have higher a Global Warming Potential, CO2 is less threatening to the environment.

3. Proven success

Across the world -- and specifically in Europe -- transcritical CO2 systems have proven to reduce energy costs and global warming impact. In fact, almost two-thirds of large grocery stores surveyed in western and northern European nations now opt for natural refrigerants like CO2. It's time to bring this trend to the U.S.!

If you're still not clear on why CO2 refrigerant is ideal for supermarkets, give East Coast Refrigeration a call at (631) 249-4556 today. Don’t forget to check us out on Facebook, Twitter and Google+ as well!