Performance, energy and sustainability

With energy costs and environmental requirements both rising, the performance of a refrigeration system has become a decisive criterion. It is no longer just about working: it is about optimising electricity consumption, getting the longest possible service life and reducing the ecological footprint. For a refrigeration professional as much as for an operator watching the budget, these are all levers to improve the return on investment.

Energy performance indicators

Energy performance is measured not only by the COP but also by indicators such as the EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) and the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). These coefficients express the ratio between cooling capacity and electricity consumption under standardised conditions, either in steady state or over a full season.

An Inverter system, combined with variable-speed compressors, continuously adapts its capacity to the actual demand, which smooths the load, avoids hard starts and delivers up to 50% more efficiency than an on/off system.

The critical role of each component

Every component plays its part in the overall performance. The compressor requires micrometre-precision machining of its moving parts to limit internal leakage and keep a constant torque. Heat exchangers, whether plate or tube type, use high thermal conductivity materials, copper or aluminium, continuously welded to withstand vibration and repeated thermal cycling.

The expansion valve, thermostatic or electronic, regulates the refrigerant flow with great precision, guaranteeing the right expansion point whatever the cooling demand.

The refrigeration piping, in certified copper, must be brazed with care to prevent micro-leaks. Anti-vibration hoses extend service life by isolating the compressor from mechanical stress, while pressure and temperature sensors with compensated metal diaphragms give the control system fast and reliable feedback.

Durability and preventive maintenance

The durability of equipment also depends on the quality of the installation and of the maintenance. Regular servicing of the heat exchangers, combined with an annual leak check, prevents refrigerant losses and limits fouling, which can increase consumption by up to 30%.

In buildings that are rarely used, it is advisable to run the system even out of season, to keep the seals supple and prevent oxidation of the moving parts.

Labels, standards and regulatory compliance

Labels and standards are another reference point. The Ecodesign (ErP) regulation sets minimum performance thresholds, while the F-Gas regulation lays out a roadmap towards refrigerants with a low global warming potential (GWP). Regulatory leak checks and energy performance checks guarantee compliance and anticipate future changes.

Life cycle approach and environmental impact

A life cycle approach measures the overall impact of an installation, from the manufacturing of the components to the treatment of waste at end of life. A modern reversible system, using natural refrigerants such as propane (R290) or CO₂ (R744), combined with recyclable materials, significantly reduces the carbon footprint.

By combining precise sizing, high-quality materials and preventive maintenance, twenty years of efficient operation with a leak rate below 3% per year is achievable.

An optimised return on investment

Choosing efficient and durable refrigeration equipment is an investment in the continuity of your business and in the preservation of resources. The energy savings, combined with lower maintenance costs and a longer service life, pay back the initial investment quickly.