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Panasonic launches more R32 units

Panasonic-R32NEW ZEALAND: The adoption of low GWP refrigerant R32 in air conditioners grows with news of the launch of Panasonic Econavi units in Australia and New Zealand.

Launched in Japan earlier this year, the new inverter heat pump units cover the range from 2.5kW to 8kW are said to offer faster cooling, a more comfortable airflow, and greater energy efficiency.

The latest range features Econavi sensors and inverter technology to moderate the temperature according to how many people are in the room and how much activity is taking place. The range is also equipped with what is called iAuto-X technology, which is said to provide for 15% faster cooling compared to previous Panasonic models due to a new compressor and fan design.

While Daikin has led the way in adopting the “mildly flammable” lower GWP refrigerant in small air conditioners, other big name manufacturers are not far behind. In addition to Panasonic, others manufacturers have also introduced R32 air conditioners in Japan, the Far East, ASEAN countries and Australasia. These include Fujitsu, Hitachi, Airwell, Mitsubishi Electric and Mitsubishi Heavy. So far Daikin is the only company to have introduced R32 air conditioners in Europe, although Panasonic have introduced an R32 Econavi heat pump unit onto the Nordic market.

Related stories:

Panasonic to launch R32 heat pump – August 30, 2015
DENMARK: Panasonic is to launch an R32 air-to-air heat pump in the Nordic region next month. Read more…

Panasonic to launch commercial R32 units – June 19, 2015
JAPAN: Panasonic has announced a range of small commercial ceiling cassette air conditioners running on R32 refrigerant in Japan. Read more…

What future for R410A? – August 26, 2015
Interesting new low GWP alternative refrigerants, combined with an expected relaxation of charge limits on flammable refrigerants, suggest that the days of R410A being the commercial air conditioning refrigerant of choice could soon be numbered. Read more…

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