If you haven’t heard about the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act (AIM Act), get ready; it’s on the way. For those of us in the walk in manufacturing industry, the AIM Act brings new regulations that will modify the types of refrigerants used and the refrigeration systems themselves, phasing out hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) production and consumption.
Not only will AIM change our walk-in refrigerator and freezer units business, but it will also affect various sectors, from restaurants and supermarkets to automobiles and beyond.
Let’s break it down.
Understanding the AIM Act
Beginning on January 1, 2025, the AIM Act is set to reduce hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) emissions by 30% over the next three years. To combat the effects of climate change, AIM will regulate, and decrease, the use of refrigerants with high global warming potential (GWP).
The act is designed on three key points. First, the U.S will implement an HFC phasedown, with a balanced allocation program to systematically reduce the production and consumption of HFCs. Second, new regulations will focus on reclamation and minimization, encouraging the recovery of refrigerants and reducing HFC emissions from existing equipment. Finally, sector-based transitions will guide specific industries toward adopting next-generation refrigerants and technologies, following defined timelines to ensure a smooth transition.
Getting up to speed with new regulations
As aforementioned, the AIM Act will go into effect on January 1, 2025, and commence on January 1, 2028. During this three-year period, service providers will be able to use old refrigerants for repairs on existing systems, but new refrigeration products such as walk in coolers and walk in freezers will need to use only compliant refrigerants and technologies. Additionally, trigger mechanisms will classify substantial component replacements in existing systems as new systems, necessitating the use of compliant refrigerants and equipment.
What does this indicate for players in the commercial walk in cooler industry? It means suppliers must finalize their product offerings in order to meet AIM Act standards.
Self-contained refrigeration systems impacted first
As January 1st looms, the refrigeration industry will need to implement necessary modifications to their existing cold storage equipment, including walk in cooler units. Self-contained refrigeration systems are likely to feel the most immediate effects of the AIM Act. New condensing units, for instance, will require significant upgrades to meet compliance with new refrigerant standards.
The AIM Act will not impact all industries equally
With regards to AIM’s impact on various industries, it’s not going to be a one-size-fits-all regulation. Guidelines will differ based on refrigerant charge size and GWP. For example, supermarkets using large refrigeration systems with a charge exceeding 200 pounds must abide by stricter rules compared to say a restaurant walk in cooler or walk in freezer. Non-refrigeration applications of HFCs, like those used in blowing agents in manufacturing insulation foams, will also be affected by the new regulations.
What does AIM mean for you?
Given the major changes ahead, Polar King understands there will be challenges. That’s why we are implementing comprehensive training programs. Whether you’re a customer who requires an outdoor walk in cooler or one who uses pharmaceutical cold storage, you will benefit from education covering leak mitigation and safety valves for the new refrigerants, enhanced safety features (new walk-in refrigerator and freezer units) will be equipped to detect leaks and automatically shut off systems to prevent refrigerant release) and real-time guidance to keep operations running smoothly.
What will it cost?
No new set of rules comes without positive and negative implications. Compliance with the AIM Act will come at a cost, with estimates indicating a potential 20-40% increase in expenses related to new refrigerants and technologies. This includes:
- Upgraded system components
- Enhanced reporting requirements
- Annual reporting to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Polar King: delivering high-performance, compliant and cost-effective refrigeration solutions
Having been a leader in the cold storage business for more than 40 years, Polar King is committed to keeping abreast of ever-changing industry regulations. We will continue preparing our customers for upcoming AIM Act changes and promise to facilitate a smooth transition to new refrigerants and safety protocols, whether you’re in need of a walk in cooler or walk in freezer.
While cost increases are expected due to the AIM Act, Polar King’s expertise, advanced technology and experience ensure we’re well-equipped to support you every step of the way. We understand this transition is complex, so we’re focusing on ongoing employee training and customer education to make the process as seamless as possible. Rest assured, we will do everything we can to minimize future costs, to minimize our customers’ bottom line.
As the AIM Act brings a new era to the refrigeration industry, Polar King stands ready to lead with solutions that meet regulatory demands and align with your environmental goals. Connect with us today to learn how we can help you navigate this transition confidently!
