Flammable refrigerant charge size limits increased

10 May 2019

The refrigerant charge limit under IEC electrotechnical standard 60335-2-89 in self-contained commercial refrigeration appliances will be changing. For A3 (Higher Flammability) refrigerants the charge limit will be approximately 500 g (increased from 150 g) and for A2 (Flammable) and A2L (Lower Flammability) refrigerants the charge limit will be a maximum of 1.2 kg (increased from 150 g).

The change in the IEC standard is likely to be positive news for many manufacturers of small commercial cabinets who previously found it challenging to keep the flammable refrigerant charge below 150 g. The decision has the potential to open up the market for hydrocarbons in small to medium sized cabinets where previously the options to use hydrocarbons were limited.

The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) voted this month to approve by a narrow margin the standard that has been revised with input from international technical experts preparing drafts and considering safety research for some time.

The new Standard is now approved for publication/translation and is expected to be available soon.

Back to news

Recent posts

IOR RACHP EngTech Section Launches New Technician App

10 Jul 2025

The IOR’s RACHP EngTech Section is proud to announce the launch of an innovative mobile technician’s app, now available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

News

IOR Dinner 126 Square Banner 1080x1080px web

All Set for the 126th IOR Annual Dinner

16 Sep 2025

Bookings are open for the 126th IOR Annual Dinner, which will be held on 12 February 2026. Building on the resounding success of last year’s occasion, ‘The Original Fridge Dinner’ will return to the elegant Hilton London Bankside.

Live event

IOR Autumn 2025 Newsletter Now Available

15 Sep 2025

Read the IOR's latest newsletter for the latest on the Institute's activities, including an update on its skills objectives. This issue also includes articles written by industry stakeholders.

Publication