Why are HCFC refrigerants preferred over CFCs?

The preference for HCFC refrigerants over CFCs primarily stems from their lower potential for ozone depletion. CFCs, or chlorofluorocarbons, are notorious for their significant role in stratospheric ozone depletion, which contributes to increased UV radiation reaching the Earth. In contrast, HCFCs (hydrochlorofluorocarbons) have a reduced capacity to harm the ozone layer due to their molecular structure, which includes hydrogen that makes them less stable in the atmosphere compared to CFCs.

While HCFCs still contribute to ozone depletion, their impact is much less severe than that of CFCs, which is why they were introduced as transitional substances in many applications. This makes HCFCs a more environmentally friendly alternative during the phase-out of CFCs. As a result, the refrigeration and air conditioning industries have shifted towards using HCFCs to comply with international agreements aimed at protecting the ozone layer, such as the Montreal Protocol.

Although HCFCs may have other features like relatively lower global warming potential compared to certain CFCs or differing efficiencies and flammability profiles, the most significant and relevant factor in their preference over CFCs is their reduced impact on ozone depletion.