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Modern ice machines are rapidly shifting to eco-friendly, natural refrigerants like R-290 (propane) due to EPA regulations. While older machines commonly used R-404A, new regulations are phasing this out in favor of substances with low Global Warming Potential (GWP), such as R-290, which is highly efficient for smaller, self-contained units.
Common Ice Machine Refrigerants:
- R-290 (Propane): The standard for new, smaller commercial ice machines (e.g., Follett ice dispensers, EnviroSafe R290). It has an ultra-low GWP (~3) and is highly efficient.
- R-404A: A hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) blend formerly used in most commercial ice machines. Being phased out due to high GWP, but still found in older units.
- R-134A: Used in some specific, often smaller, commercial refrigeration and ice-making applications, for example R-134A 30 lb. Cylinder available from Arctic Refrigerants.
- R-449A: An alternative used in some remote condenser ice machines as a lower-GWP replacement for R-404A.
- R-600A (Isobutane): A natural refrigerant, often in smaller, specialized, or European-influenced units (e.g., Nu-Calgon EcoPure R600a).
This video explains how R290 refrigerant is used in modern ice machines:
Key Trends & Considerations:
- EPA Shift: The EPA is phasing out high-GWP HFCs (like R-404A) under the SNAP program, making R-290 the dominant choice for new equipment.
- Safety (A3/A2L): R-290 is flammable, so systems are designed with minimal charges (often < 100 grams) to ensure safety.
- Retrofitting: While HFCs are being phased out, some systems might use HFO blends (e.g., R-513A, R-449A) as retrofits, though these are less common than the shift to natural refrigerants.
- Maintenance: Always check the data plate on the ice machine to identify the specific refrigerant required.
For purchasing, you can find options like the Freon Refrigerant R404A 24lb. Jug from BudgetHeating.Com or Nu-Calgon 4175-31 EcoPure R600a Refrigerant from Edmondson Supply.
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What are A1 A2L and A3 refrigerants?
A1 refrigerants are non-toxic and non-flammable (e.g., R-448A). A2L refrigerants are non-toxic, mildly flammable, and more energy-efficient (e.g., R-454A). A3 refrigerants are natural, non-toxic, but highly flammable (e.g., R-290).Nov 14, 2025
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Freonâ„¢ Refrigerants
https://www.freon.com › products › refrigerants
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Why R-290 Refrigerant Is Reshaping the Ice Machine Market
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May 12, 2025 — R-290, or propane, is a natural, non-synthetic refrigerant. It delivers strong thermodynamic performance and has an ultra-low Global Warming Potential (GWP) ...Read more
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Mar 19, 2026 — This page contains a searchable/filterable/sortable table of substitutes listed acceptable for use in commercial ice machines.
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Icemaker
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