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The Monogram convertible refrigerator utilizes 2 separate variable speed sealed systems, one system per
compartment. This allows the compartments to be independently controlled. The front system controls
the top compartment, the rear system controls the bottom compartment. These systems utilize R600a
Isobutane refrigerant. R600a is a hydrocarbon refrigerant.
Q. What are hydrocarbons? (HC)
Hydrocarbon refrigerants are environmentally friendly, non-toxic, non-ozone-depleting replacement for
chloro
fl
uorocarbons (CFCs).
From a chemical point of view, a hydrocarbon is the simplest organic compound, consisting entirely of
hydrogen and carbon. Hydrocarbons (HC) are naturally occurring substances. The majority can be found in
crude oil, where decomposed organic matter provides an abundance of carbon and hydrogen.
Hydrocarbons are one of the most climate-friendly and cost-ef
fi
cient refrigerants to heat, cool and freeze.
Non-ozone depleting: Ozone Depletion Potential = 0
Not climate damaging: Global Warming Potential = for most HCs below 3 *
Non-toxic
Safe: with proper handling
Energy-ef
fi
cient: usually better energy ef
fi
ciency than CFC or HFC systems
Cost-ef
fi
cient: low refrigerant purchase price as well as lower system running costs
Q. Are hydrocarbons safe?
Yes, with proper handling. Since hydrocarbons are
fl
ammable, some basic safety rules need to be respected
by manufacturers, installers and users, which may differ slightly depending on the application. As long as
these rules are respected, it is perfectly safe to use hydrocarbons as refrigerants. Propane, for example, is
used universally for heating and cooking. As a result, its safe handling is widely understood and practiced
by the general global population. This makes it an appropriate alternative to climate damaging chemical
refrigerants also in developing countries.
Q. Are hydrocarbons
fl
ammable?
Yes. However, keeping to the safety guidelines existing for any application using
fl
ammable refrigerants, the
risks of using hydrocarbons can be kept to a minimum, hence avoiding any threat to human health and
safety. Many components for commercial refrigerated appliances using hydrocarbons already meet safety
standard requirements.
Q. Are HCs toxic?
No. Hydrocarbons are not toxic for human beings and other living organisms. Could cause asphyxiation at
high concentrations.
Q. How does a HC system work?
A system using hydrocarbons works in exactly the same way as systems currently using synthetic
refrigerants. The basic refrigeration cycle remains the same, and only the charge of the system (exact
amount of refrigerant) varies.
Evacuate and charge the system. Use original factory charge quantity of R600a. (See Evacuation and
Charging Procedure Pub # 31-9214.)
R600a – Isobutane Refrigerant
