The UK’s first R32-based system has been installed, paving the way for a sea-change in refrigerant selection, according to manufacturer Daikin.

 Installed by Malvern-based Young Air Conditioning in a domestic application in Worcestershire, Daikin UK’s Emura system became the first air conditioning product to be installed in the UK using R32 refrigerant gas.

 And the landmark installation is set to initiate a gradual groundswell of interest in the technology, according to Graham Wright, legislation specialist, Daikin UK.

 “While we have no official targets for take-up of the technology, the option is now out there and available, we therefore expect increasing interest, particularly once the efficiency numbers associated with refrigerant begin to appear.

 “In Japan the technology really took off in the first 18 months. While we don’t expect that sort of dramatic up-take here as companies will require a period of adjustment, we think the market will adapt quickly to the technology once they get their heads round the fact there’s no difference compared with current systems.

 Mr Wright added that Daikin UK already has 15 training courses lined-up to October, with spaces filling fast.

 Commenting on the installation Mr Young said: “We choose to use R32 refrigerant gas for the installation as we believe that its environmental and high energy efficiency properties are the way forward for the industry. With no real difference to the R410a installation process, installing the Daikin Emura with R32 gas was simple and straightforward, providing only benefits for the end user.”