What common refrigerant is used in domestic refrigeration applications?

The common refrigerant used in domestic refrigeration applications is R-22, also known as chlorodifluoromethane. It has been widely utilized in residential air conditioning and refrigeration systems for several decades due to its effectiveness in heat exchange and overall reliability. R-22 is non-toxic, has a relatively low environmental impact compared to other refrigerants, and offers good efficiency in energy transfer, making it suitable for typical household applications.

Historically, R-22 has been favored in many HVAC systems designed for cooling, which explains its prevalence in homes. However, it's important to note that R-22 is being phased out due to its ozone-depleting potential. This transition has led to the development and adoption of alternative refrigerants that have a lower environmental impact, though R-22 remains one of the most recognized and understood refrigerants in domestic contexts.

In contrast, while ammonia is a highly efficient refrigerant, it is primarily used in industrial applications due to its toxicity and corrosive properties. Carbon dioxide, although eco-friendly, presents challenges in terms of performance at common domestic temperature ranges. Propane is a natural refrigerant with a lower environmental impact, but it is flammable, which limits its application in many household settings.