The Ozone Layer is in the upper atmosphere which is between 15 and 30kms above the surface of the earth. It’s vital to life, and has been depleted over time by harmful refrigerant gases. It absorbs solar UV-B radiation, offering a layer of protection from skin cancer, and is also involved in the removal of pollutants and greenhouse gases.

Ozone molecules are not abundant, and it’s important we take measures to protect the Ozone layer from further damage.

Ozone depletion

CFC and HCFC gases and other substances used in industry and Air Conditioning have led to a thinning of the ozone layer – at about the rate of 5%-9% over Australia since the 60s, according to the Australian Government – and to the formation of the ozone hole over Antarctica. The Montreal Protocol was developed in the early 1990s to phase out the use of ozone-depleting substances around the world.
What is the verdict so far?

Recent assessments of the ozone layer show that the Montreal Protocol has been very successful in reducing the use of ozone-depleting substances, and if this continues, it’s expected that the ozone layer will return to pre-1980 levels sometime after 2050. This is good news and shows how responsible and cooperative behaviour among nations can help us to preserve our planet for ourselves and future generations.

What’s new and working?

Ozone-depleting substances in air conditioning have been gradually replaced with HFC gases which do not harm the ozone layer. However, these are still strong greenhouse gases. The Australian Government is committed to reducing these and other synthetic greenhouse gases under the Kyoto Protocol, and to replacing them with more natural alternatives. These include ammonia, carbon dioxide and hydrocarbon refrigerants, such as butane (used in cigarette lighters) and propane (BBQ gas) – which are so far proving to be successful in industry and for air conditioning use.

The future

Natural refrigerants look set to be used more and more in modern air conditioning systems. The important thing for consumers to do is to contact Refrigerant Reclaim Australia if discarding an old air conditioner, and to also replace units that are more than ten years old with newer, more energy-efficient air conditioners.
Contact Asset Air Conditioning if you would like to know more about refrigerants, or if you would like a quote on modern and efficient domestic split and ducted systems for your home or business.
www.assetaircon.com.au

07 5596 1033

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