As sustainability and regulatory compliance become top priorities in the HVAC/R industry, UA2L refrigerants are gaining momentum as the next-generation solution for cooling systems. With mounting regulatory pressure, environmental urgency, and technological innovation, UA2L refrigerants are poised to reshape how we think about climate control. 

What Are UA2L Refrigerants? 

UA2L refrigerants fall under the A2L classification defined by ASHRAE Standard 34, where: 

• “A” indicates low toxicity 
• “2L” denotes low flammability with limited flame propagation 

These refrigerants are designed to replace high-GWP (Global Warming Potential) HFCs like R-410A and R-404A, offering a safer and more climate-friendly alternative. Common UA2L refrigerants include R-32, R-454B, R-454A, and R-454C. 

Why UA2L is the Future:

• Improved Energy Efficiency – Systems using UA2L refrigerants often deliver improved thermodynamic performance, resulting in energy savings of up to 20% in some applications. 
• Regulatory Compliance – With federal and state mandates like the EPA’s AIM Act and SNAP Rules 25 & 26 phasing down HFCs, UA2L refrigerants offer a compliant path forward. They align with both federal and international climate goals. 
• Innovation in Equipment – Manufacturers are developing advanced systems optimized for UA2L refrigerants, including smart leak detection and modular designs. 

New Laws & Regulations Impacting UA2L Refrigerant 

Federal Laws 

• AIM Act: Requires an 85% phasedown of HFCs by 2036. As of January 1, 2025, new HVAC systems must use refrigerants with a GWP below 700. 
• SNAP Rule 25 & 26: These rules restrict high-GWP refrigerants in air conditioning and refrigeration, with UA2L refrigerants approved for use in new systems. 
• ASHRAE & UL Standards: Updated safety codes (ASHRAE 15 & 34, UL 60335-2-40) mandate leak detection and ventilation for A2L refrigerants. 

State-Level Regulations 

• New York: Bans bulk refrigerants with GWP > 2,200 starting April 9, 2025; sale of R-404A and R-507A ends December 31, 2025. 
• California & Climate Alliance States: Enforcing stricter GWP limits, accelerating UA2L adoption.  

Market Momentum:  

As of mid-2025, UA2L refrigerants already dominate over half of the HVAC market share, with a projection to grow as it expands further into commercial refrigeration, automotive, and industrial sectors.   

As UA2L refrigerant continues to grow keep in mind these key factors: 

• Technician training is essential for safe handling and installation. 
• Building codes and standards are evolving to accommodate A2L refrigerants, requiring close attention during system design and retrofits.
• Mild flammability means systems must include leak detection and ventilation safeguards. 

UA2L in the Aftermarket Space 

While UA2L refrigerants are primarily used in new equipment, their presence in the aftermarket is growing: 

• Retrofitting: Most existing systems cannot be retrofitted to UA2L due to safety and design constraints. However, some manufacturers are developing dual-refrigerant systems that can operate on A1 refrigerants today and be upgraded to A2L refrigerants in the future with retrofit kits. 
• Service & Maintenance: Technicians must use A2L-compatible tools and follow updated safety protocols, including leak detection and ventilation. 
• Inventory Strategy: Distributors stock dual-compatible components to support both legacy and UA2L systems, ensuring their readiness for upcoming regulation changes. 

UA2L refrigerants represent more than just a technical upgrade—they’re a strategic pivot toward a more sustainable HVAC/R future. Whether you’re installing new systems or preparing aftermarket upgrades, UA2L technology offers a smart path forward for contractors, facility managers, and distributors alike.

Click here to get in Contract with Us and See How We Can Help with Your Next UA2L Project!

ICM Controls is a leading manufacturer and designer of HVAC electronic controls, monitoring and protection, for your piece of mind. In addition, ICM Controls wants to ensure that you’re always prepared, no matter the conditions.  

This month, ICM Controls is pleased to announce the launch of the new ICM-UDefrost, universal control board. We know it’s a little early in the season, but we want you to be prepared for the months ahead, especially with the high cost and limited access to OEM replacement boards. The ICM-UDefrost is a Universal defrost control board which replaces the function of nearly all time & temperature heat pump defrost controls is a must. 

Why a Device Like This is Beneficial 

Defrost controls prevent ice build-up on the outdoor coil, allowing the heat pump to run more efficiently when heating at low temperatures. Having a defrost control over time will help extend the life of your valuable equipment and reduce service calls.  

When a heat pump goes into defrost most the following cycle takes place:  

• The system detects frost build-up when outdoor coil temperature drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit  
• The reversing valve switches to colling mode temporarily 
• Warm refrigerant flows to the outdoor coil to melt the ice 
• The outdoor fan stops running to concentrate heat on defrosting 
• Indoor auxiliary heat activates to maintain home comfort 

How it Works 

The ICM-UDefrost board monitors thermostat calls for Y, O/B and W2 inputs. During a heat call if conditions for defrost are met, the control will perform a time and temperature defrost cycle. During normal operation, the control continuously monitors safety measures such as the low-pressure switch, high-pressure switch, brownout detection, and sensor health while displaying status and fault conditions via onboard LED diagnostics. 

NFC Technology 

The ICM-UDefrost, universal control board is equipped with NFC technology via the ICM Omni mobile app (available through the apple store and google).  Using near field communication, you can easily set the parameters of your device before getting out of the vehicle for installation (this is especially helpful in cooler climates).  

To set-up near field communication of the ICM-UDefrost follow the steps below:  

• Remove the device from its packaging 
• Once the ICM Omni app is downloaded, click read device 
• Hold your phone near the ICM-UDefrost until a check mark shows complete 
• Open the app and select “Program Device” 
• Select the ICM-UDefrost to program  
• Choose the option to create a new program or select a saved program 
• Select each parameter and program 
• Hold your phone near the ICM-UDefrost until a check mark shows complete 

ICM-UDefrost Features: 

• Universal time & temperature defrost board for heat pumps 
• Configurable settings with NFC 
  • Compressor anti-short cycle delay 
  • High ambient temperature auxiliary heat lockout 
  • Low ambient temperature compressor lockout 
  • Defrost end & defrost enable temperature 
  • Defrost interval timer 
  • Max defrost time 
  • Quiet shift 
  • Compressor staging delay (after brownout or at power up) 
  • Heat active/cool active reversing valve configuration 
• Field test mode 
• Brownout protection 
• LED indicators to aid in troubleshooting 

ICM-UDefrost Specifications: 

Inputs: 

• Power Supply 
  • R, C (24 VAC, 50/60 Hz) 
• Thermostat 
  • 24 VAC, 24mA 
• Outdoor Ambient Thermistor (OAT) 
  • 10 K ohm 
• Outdoor Coil Sensor (OCT) 
  • 10 K ohm 
• Low Pressure Switch (LPS) 
  • 24VAC 
• High Pressure Switch (HPS) 
  • 24VAC 
• Field Test Button 

Outputs: 

• Fan 
• N.C. ; 1/2HP, ( 2.7 FLA), 240 VAC 
• Compressor Contactor 
• 24 VAC, 1A, Pilot Duty 
• Reversing Valve (O/B) 
• 24 VAC, 1A, Pilot Duty 
• W2 
• 24 VAC, 1A, Pilot Duty 
• Cool LED 
• Blue 
• Heat LED 
• Red 
• Status LED 
• Green 

Environment: 

• Operating Ambient Temperature 
  • -40OC to 70OC 
• Shipping and Storage Temperature 
  • -40O C to 75OC 

Cross-Reference 

The ICM-UDefrost replaces all ICM legacy product including: DFORB24A2I300, DFORB-AB1004, DFORF, DFOSP24A2, ICM300C, ICM301C, ICM302C, ICM303C, ICM304, ICM307, ICM314, ICM315, ICM316, ICM317, ICM318, ICM319, ICM320, ICM321, ICM322, ICM323, ICM324, ICM350, ICM3000, W1001, W1001-4 and their associated crosses. For the complete list of crosses, view our cross-reference guide here.  

Marketing Materials 

All marketing materials are available on the ICM-UDefrost landing page and can be downloaded at your fingertips.  

• Landing Page 
• Sell Sheet 
• Installation Guide 
• Pre-Recorded Webinar Video 
• Cross-Reference Guide 

To learn more, view our dedicated landing page: https://www.icmcontrols.com/product/icm-udefrost/or contact us at freetrainings@icmcontrols.com and one of our Regional Sales Manager will be happy to provide you with a 1-1 product training session for FREE.  

Why Do We Need Surge Protection?

Did you know that most power surges occur on the customer side of the meter? When high-powered electrical devices within a facility such as elevators, air conditioners, refrigerators, pumps, compressors and motors — are switched on and off, or operate in cycles, they can generate internal surges.

Most of our modern-day electronics consist of microprocessors that rely on digital signals:

• Slight distortions on power or signal lines may disrupt the sensitive signal sequence
• Electronic components have become smaller and more powerful, therefore, also have become more sensitive to surges.

For these reasons, surge protection helps to increase reliability and uptime of microprocessors.

Without appropriate surge protection, even minor transient over-voltages can degrade or damage devices such as computers, televisions, and other household appliances.

• Installing a surge protection device (SPD) enhances the resilience and reliability of the entire electrical installation by mitigating these risks.
• Beyond individual equipment protection, it contributes to the overall stability and longevity of the electrical system, offering users confidence in the continuous safe operation of their installations.

Types of SPDs and Which One Do You Need?

Currently in the market there are three different types of surge protection devices (SPDs). Type 1, type 2 and type 3. Let’s review each one and identify some of the applications.

Type 1 Surge Protection Device:

A type 1 surge protection device is designed for high-surge currents and is installed at the line side of the service to the house and/or building. These devices are used to protect your equipment from major surge events.

Type 1 SPDs are generally used to help protect your equipment from external surges:

• Lightning strikes
• Direct and indirect strikes
• Utility company switching

They are not used to protect sensitive electronic equipment or systems from transients that switch. If that application is required, we’d recommend the use of a type 2 device as well.

Type 2 Surge Protection Devices:

Designed to be permanently attached and installed on the load side of the service disconnect over-current device (service equipment), including brand panel locations. Their major function is to shield the delicate electronics and microprocessor-based loads from surges caused by motors, leftover lightning energy, and other internally induced surge events.

Internal surges may include:

• When devices are switched on and off
• Operation cycles

Type 3 Surge Protection Devices:

Point-of-utilization, a minimum of 10 meters (30 feet) of conductor must separate the electrical service panel from the place of use before installing SPDs. Examples include direct plug-in, cable connection, and receptacle type SPD.

Relevant Products:

Surge Protection Devices:

Type 1:

• ICM517A – Single-phase surge protection device
• ICM517A-LITE – Single-phase surge protection device (Coming Soon)

Type 2:

• ICM518 – Split-phase surge protection device

Type 1 and 2:

• ICM530 – 3-Phase surge protection device
• ICM531 – 3-Phase surge protection device

Voltage Monitors:

• ICM492 – Single-phase voltage monitor
• ICM450A – 3-Phase line voltage monitor
• ICM450A+ PLUS – 3-Phase line voltage monitor

Combination Voltage Monitoring/ Surge Protection:

• ICM493 – Single-phase voltage monitoring with surge protection
• Sentry3N1 – Single-phase disconnect with internal voltage monitoring and surge protection
• 3VMS – 3-Phase voltage monitor and surge protector

 

 

As summer approaches many of us are worried about the weather ahead especially if located in the Southeast. From along the east-coast to the mid-United States there are over 45 million lightning events per year. With storms like these most of us have been able to prepare for what’s to come. However, as the housing market changes some people are moving towards these southern states and need to be aware and adjust their homes for the storms that lie ahead.

What Kind of damage can you experience during a lightening stroke?

A lightning strike can cause a fire to start inside or outside of the home as well as ruin expensive appliances, wires and even cause harm to the people inside of the home through a shock.

Lightning is one of the most dangerous aspects and can have severe consequences, some of which include:

• Fires can be caused if a strike hits flammable materials or electrical equipment
• Damage to your electronics and large appliances through surges
• Weaken structure by physical damage (falling trees, powerlines, etc.)
• Electrical system malfunctions

Ways to be prepared and take proactive steps to minimize property damage

• Have regular maintenance checks performed on your home
• Install surge protective devices to provide more safety to your electronic devices
• Monitor the weather for local warnings

Let’s look at one of the ways that we can be prepared by Installing Surge Protective Devices

A transient power surge can be caused by a lightning strike. A transient power surge is a brief spike in voltage on an electrical circuit. When ranges are greater than 2000 volts this can cause damage to equipment within the home and/or facility. To best prepare for these types of unexpected surges we recommend the use of a surge protection device (SPD).

Here at ICM Controls, we have surge protection devices for single-phase equipment.

Let’s Look Into the ICM517A – A Better Solution

The ICM517A is a NEMA type 4X enclosed type 2 (load side) surge protection device designed to protect valuable single-phase equipment by absorbing transient voltage spikes and surges caused by lightning strikes or other power disturbances; and safely dissipating the energy into a form of heat using thermally protected mental oxide varistors (TMOVs). The ICM517A has ten of these incorporated in its design allowing the device to essentially sacrifice itself to protect your equipment.

With national electrical codes and major manufacturers now requiring sure protection to be installed this is a better solution to meet your surge protection needs. The ICM517A provides the best-in-class surge protection and most durable type 3 SPD on the market with the best warranty available.

To view our product landing page click here: https://www.icmcontrols.com/product/icm517a/

Check Out our New Surge Protection Device Coming Soon!

With quality and safety top of mind ICM Controls has developed a new single-phase surge protection device at a lower cost. Designed with the same superior technology as the ICM517A, ICM Controls has developed an ICM517A-Lite, coming in July.

With today’s power grid being taxed more than ever by voltage surges, spikes and irregularities caused by increased usage of the grid and changing weather patterns it’s important to keep surge protection top of mind. The ICM517A-Lite is a more compact design and has a maximum surge current of 60,000 amps in relation to the ICM517A at 100,000amp. The ICM517A-lite is a good choice and provides commercial property owners with peace of mind, contractors with a reliable selling proposition and wholesalers with a high-demand product.

Contact us at marketing@icmcontrols.com to get in contact with your Regional Sales Manager to learn more about this product before it hits shelves.

Where There’s Surge Protection There Should be Line Voltage Monitoring

The ICM492 is one of ICM Controls’ best-selling single-phase line voltage monitoring devices. Designed to protect against low and high voltage conditions, and rapid short cycling due to voltage fault or power interruption. Its easy-to-use backlit display makes it user-friendly to read and monitor voltage conditions, providing a simple and safe solution.

Sentry 3N1- An Ultimate Solution for Single-Phase Surge Protection and Line Voltage Monitoring

The Sentry 3N1, is an internal disconnect with voltage monitoring and surge protection, designed to protect against both surges and over/under voltage issues that can cause damage to circuit boards and motors in both residential and commercial single-phase 208/240 VAC HVAC equipment.

To make this device we’ve combined the benefits of our ICM Controls best-seller, the ICM517A single-phase surge protection device, and an ICM492 single-phase voltage monitor. In addition, this device is also equipped with an onboard disconnect breaker, providing homeowners with an easy and convenient way to break the power.

————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————–

ICM Controls manufactures both OEM and aftermarket products under its own brand names for HVAC, Electrical, pool & spa, marine, and recreational vehicle markets.

We manufacture a wide range of Surge Protection Devices, Line Voltage Monitors, Fan Blower Controls, Time Relays, Defrost Boards, and Universal Furnace Control Boards. We have worked closely with some of the world’s most renowned business giants for decades. To learn more, visit icmcontrols1.wpengine.com

 

April Product Spotlight of the Month: 3VMS 

The 3VMS combines the benefits of the ICM450A programmable 3-phase line voltage monitor and a ICM530 type 1 and type 2 3-phase surge protective device into one easy-to-install solution. The 3VMS protects against both power surges and over/under voltage issues that can cause damage to circuit boards and motors in residential and commercial three-phase 208/240 HVAC equipment.  

 

Overall Features and Benefits of the 3VMS include: 

• All components pre-wired for 208/240 volts 
• Modular design with field replaceable components 
• Field programmable voltage monitor with backlit LCD display and a large fault history 
• Protects against over and under voltage, phase loss, phase reversal, phase unbalance and rapid short cycling 
• Separate 40amp contractor, fully disconnects from the service 
• Superior TMOV technology provides safe and reliable surge protection, up to 150 kA max surge event 
• Built to withstand the high impact of a major surge event 
• NEMA type 4X Rating 
• Limited lifetime product warranty up to a 3-year $10,000 connected equipment warranty. 
• UL Listed: ICM450A UL file number E53944 
• UL Listed: ICM530 UL file number E347279 
• Assembled in the USA  

 

Click here to view the Sell Sheet 

Click Here to view the Application Guide 

   

ICM530 Three-Phase Surge Protection Device 

The ICM Controls ICM530 is the best that it can get, with a maximum surge current of 150,000 amps and a short circuit rating of 200kA, this control can really take a hit! The ICM530 is a 3-phase surge suppressor designed to safely absorb a surge when it exceeds thermal limits, further protecting your valuable 3-phase equipment. 

  

Below is a list of further details for the ICM530: 

• Delta or Wye Configuration  
• NEMA Type 4X watertight plastic enclosure for outdoor and indoor installation  
• Green LED indicates surge protection present  
• Easily connects to electrical panel or disconnect for indoor and outdoor applications  
• UL Listed Type 1 or Type 2 SPD  
• Limited lifetime product, up to a 3-year $10,000 connected equipment warranty 

 

For more information on product features, benefits and specification see our Sell Sheet and Installation/Application Guide. 

 

ICM450A Programmable 3-Phase Line Voltage Monitor 

ICM450A is a flagship line voltage control monitor designed to protect your most valuable equipment. This control provides superior motor protection from premature failure and damage caused by common voltage faults. 

 

Additional features include: 

• Backlit LCD 
• Simultaneous 3-phase true RMS voltage monitoring 
• Factory calibrated 
• 3-phase voltages simultaneously displayed on LCD 
• Fault memory 
• Fault monitoring: High/low voltage, voltage unbalance, phase loss, phase reversal 
• Simple configuration 
• Fully adjustable variables 
• LED indicators 
• Common ¼” quick connect terminations 
• English or Spanish menu options 

 

For more information on product features, benefits and specifications see our Sell Sheet and Installation/Application Guide. 

  

To Learn More About the 3VMS by Watching Our Training Webinar Below: 

Interested in Obtaining this Product  

Please contact us at orders@icmcontrols.com and we’ll assist you further. If you’d like more product information, please reach out to info@icmcontrols.com and we’d be happy to assist with any technical questions you may have.