THE French government is considering banning sales of pre-charged split system air conditioning units to the general public.
According to AREA, the European contractors association, the French Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development is considering modifying the distribution system of these pre-charged systems by applying the same restrictions as with fluorinated gas in cylinders.

AREA has, itself, previously called for a similar ban on pre-charged systems, arguing that individuals can currently take delivery of these systems and put them into service without using a certified professional.

The French Ministry is requesting opinions, by March 21, on this proposed measure, as well as data on the number of pre-charged systems being sold directly to the French public and the number of pre-charged systems sold through professional distribution circuits. A delegation from EPEE, the European Partnership for Energy and the Environment, is meeting the Ministry on March 17.