The American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act, enacted in December 2020, has brought significant changes to the refrigeration industry. As we navigate through 2025, the first set of restrictions under the AIM Act are now in effect, aiming to phase down the production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) by 85% by 2036. These regulations are crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to more environmentally friendly refrigerants.

One of the key aspects of the AIM Act is the Technology Transition Rule. It impacts the repair and servicing of refrigerated display cases. The rule specifies that repairs are permissible unless they result in the creation of a new system. This means that while existing display cases can continue to operate and be serviced, certain extensive repairs may be restricted. For instance, assembling a system for the first time from used or new components, increasing the cooling capacity of an existing system, or replacing 75% or more of evaporators and 100% of the compressor racks, condensers, and connected evaporator loads are considered new installation

Understanding these repair restrictions is essential for businesses to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties. As we move forward, staying informed and adapting to these regulations will be key to maintaining operational efficiency and environmental responsibility. This blog will help navigate the repair restrictions of refrigerated display cases.

Last month, we discussed the ways in which industrial and commercial refrigeration systems can achieve greater energy efficiency using modern components. This month, we will delve into the advancements in commercial reach-in freezers and coolers, commonly known as refrigerated display cases within the industry. We will explore how these units have been optimized for efficiency and effective cooling with the integration of the latest refrigeration technology.

As energy costs rise, regulations evolve, and consumer demand for environmentally friendly solutions increases, evaluating your current commercial or industrial refrigeration system for a potential upgrade increases in importance. When considering an upgrade, several factors – such as the current condition of your equipment, maintenance costs, energy efficiency, and refrigerant type must be evaluated. Each of these factors play a role in determining the cost effectiveness of an upgrade.