What can happen if different types of refrigerants are mixed?

Mixing different types of refrigerants can lead to significant system damage. Each refrigerant is designed with specific properties, including boiling and condensation points, pressure ranges, and chemical compatibility with system components. When these properties vary significantly between mixed refrigerants, several issues can arise.

For instance, the performance of the system may degrade, leading to ineffective cooling or heating. Additionally, mixing refrigerants can alter the pressure within the system, potentially causing compressor failure or other component breakdowns. Furthermore, the presence of incompatible chemicals can result in the formation of harmful acids or sludge, which can corrode metal parts, clog filters, and damage the overall system.

Therefore, the answer highlights the critical importance of using the correct type of refrigerant as specified by the manufacturer to ensure proper operation and longevity of the HVAC system.