Everything You Need to Know About Dura Cool Refrigerant
Understanding Dura Cool: Revolutionary Cooling Solutions
Dura Cool refers to a family of innovative cooling products that include hydrocarbon refrigerants, evaporative cooler pads, marine keel coolers, patio covers, and specialized insulation materials. These solutions are designed to deliver superior cooling performance with environmental benefits.
| What is Dura Cool? | Main Applications | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Premium hydrocarbon refrigerant | Automotive A/C systems | Reduces/stops leaks, environmentally friendly |
| Evaporative cooler pads | HVAC systems, greenhouses | More efficient than paper pads, non-allergenic |
| Keel coolers | Marine vessels | 17% better heat transfer, streamlined design |
| Phase change materials | Commercial cooling | 90% energy savings vs. traditional A/C |
| Patio covers | Outdoor living spaces | Made with domestic aluminum, premium Duracoat XT40 paint |
| Walk-in coolers | Commercial refrigeration | Foam-in-place technology, bicoastal manufacturing |
Millions of vehicles across North America currently use Duracool refrigerant, which has gained popularity for its ability to reduce or completely stop leaks in mobile air conditioning systems. What makes Dura Cool products stand out is their combination of durability, efficiency, and environmental responsibility - whether it's the foamed polyester cooling pads that outperform traditional materials or the marine keel coolers with patented designs that increase heat transfer by more than 17%.
Unlike conventional cooling solutions, many Dura Cool products leverage hydrocarbon technology or phase change materials that dramatically reduce energy consumption while maintaining excellent performance. These innovations make Dura Cool solutions increasingly popular across automotive, marine, commercial refrigeration, and residential cooling applications.
I'm Mortuary Cooler, a national-level supplier specializing in mortuary cooling systems that incorporate Dura Cool technology for reliable, energy-efficient performance in funeral home settings. My expertise with Dura Cool products spans both traditional refrigerant applications and advanced insulation systems that ensure optimal temperature control for mortuary facilities.
Easy dura cool glossary:
Dura Cool Product Types & Working Principles
The Dura Cool family encompasses several distinct product lines, each serving specific cooling needs across various industries. Let's explore these innovative cooling solutions to help you find the perfect match for your needs.
How Dura Cool Refrigerant Works
When you pop the hood on Dura Cool refrigerant, you'll find some pretty impressive science at work. Made by Deepfreeze Refrigerants Inc., this isn't your average cooling fluid – it's a specialized hydrocarbon blend that works wonders in mobile air conditioning systems.
The cooling cycle itself isn't reinventing the wheel – the refrigerant still absorbs heat as it evaporates and releases it during condensation. But what makes Dura Cool special is its unique molecular structure that delivers real advantages you can feel.
For starters, those hydrocarbon molecules transfer heat more efficiently than synthetic alternatives. Your system runs at lower pressures too, which means less strain on components and a happier compressor. Perhaps most impressive is the self-sealing magic that happens when small leaks occur – Dura Cool actually reacts with moisture at leak points to create temporary seals. That's why so many users report their pesky leaks disappearing after switching.
And unlike some alternative refrigerants that demand special oils, Dura Cool plays nice with the mineral or PAG oil already in your system. The cherry on top? A written guarantee that it won't harm any component in your A/C system – backed by millions of successful installations across North America.
| Property | Duracool | R-134a |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Hydrocarbon blend | Tetrafluoroethane |
| Global Warming Potential | Very low (<20) | 1,430 |
| Operating Pressure | Lower | Higher |
| Charge Amount | 30-40% less | Standard |
| Leak Sealing | Yes (minor leaks) | No |
| Oil Compatibility | Works with existing oils | Requires specific oils |
| System Compatibility | Universal with written guarantee | OEM designed systems |
How Dura Cool Evaporative Pads Function
Remember those paper cooling pads that turned to mush after a few months? Dura Cool evaporative pads by Dial Manufacturing are the answer to that soggy nightmare. These clever cooling heroes are made from foamed polyester that creates a three-dimensional matrix perfect for both holding water and allowing airflow.
The beauty is in the simplicity. Water trickles down through the pad, saturating the foamed polyester. As air passes horizontally through this wet wonderland, the water evaporates into the passing air, stealing heat in the process. What flows out is cooler, humidified air that makes hot spaces comfortable.
What I love about these pads is how they solve all the common frustrations of traditional cooler pads. The foamed polyester holds water more evenly, creating consistent cooling without the dry spots you get with paper. They offer more surface area for better cooling efficiency, and they even filter out airborne particles as a bonus. Best of all? No more finding little bits of deteriorating pad material blown throughout your space – these pads maintain their structure without shedding.
For greenhouse owners, livestock facilities, or homes with evaporative cooling, these non-allergenic, odorless pads are a game-changer. They simply perform better while lasting longer – what's not to love?
Dura Cool Keel Cooler Technology
When it comes to keeping marine engines cool, Dura Cool technology really makes a splash. Duramax Marine's DuraCooler keel coolers represent some serious engineering prowess, transferring heat from engine coolant to surrounding water without needing separate seawater pumps.
These aren't your grandfather's keel coolers. Crafted from one-piece 90/10 cupronickel, they resist corrosion and fouling while conducting heat beautifully. The streamlined header design is particularly clever – it improves coolant flow distribution by 35% and boosts heat rejection in outer tubes by 45% compared to traditional square headers.
I'm particularly impressed by the engineered flow diverter "scoops" that eliminate stagnant areas between tubes. This forced convection effect significantly improves heat transfer. And yes, they've proven all this through rigorous testing in an 800,000-gallon water tunnel facility and extensive computer modeling.
The bottom line? These keel coolers deliver more than 17% better overall heat transfer while potentially shrinking the required footprint by up to 42%. For boat owners and marine engineers, that means smaller units that perform better and create less drag – improving efficiency across the board.
Duramax Marine's ongoing research program, which began back in 1997, shows their commitment to continuously improving their Dura Cool technology. That's the kind of dedication that keeps them at the forefront of marine cooling solutions.
Duracool in Walk-In & Mortuary Cooling
Here at American Mortuary Coolers, we've acceptd Dura Cool technology in our custom mortuary coolers because, frankly, it works brilliantly. These cooling systems incorporate advanced foam-in-place insulation that creates an exceptional thermal barrier – critical when preservation depends on stable temperatures.
The walk-in cooler systems manufactured by Arctic Industries (who acquired Duracold Refrigeration Manufacturing in 2018) feature high-density polyurethane foam injected between metal panels. This creates a seamless insulation envelope that keeps the cold in and the heat out. The precision temperature control maintains those critical consistent conditions that funeral professionals depend on.
What makes these systems special is their thoughtful engineering – from energy-efficient refrigeration components that keep operating costs down to customizable configurations that fit your specific facility needs. And with manufacturing facilities in both Miami, FL and Los Angeles, CA, Arctic Industries can efficiently deliver these Dura Cool walk-in coolers throughout North America, complementing our own delivery network spanning the contiguous 48 states from our Tennessee headquarters.
For mortuary applications, reliability isn't just nice to have – it's absolutely essential. Our mortuary coolers with Dura Cool technology are engineered to maintain precise conditions 24/7/365, giving funeral professionals one less thing to worry about in their demanding profession. More info about energy-efficient coolers
Key Benefits & Environmental Impact of Dura Cool
The Dura Cool product family delivers impressive performance benefits while significantly reducing environmental impact compared to conventional cooling technologies. These advantages have driven adoption across multiple industries and applications.
Why Choose Dura Cool Over Conventional Refrigerants
Let's talk straight about why Dura Cool refrigerant stands head and shoulders above conventional options. If you've been using traditional refrigerants like R-134a or R-410A, you're in for a pleasant surprise.
Dura Cool transfers heat more effectively than synthetic alternatives, giving your system a noticeable efficiency boost. You'll also use less of it—typically 30-40% less by volume—which means savings for both your wallet and the planet.
What really gives our customers peace of mind is the written guarantee that comes with Dura Cool. Unlike some alternatives that might damage your system components, Dura Cool promises not to harm any part of your A/C system. We've seen this in our mortuary coolers, where reliability is absolutely non-negotiable.
One of my favorite features to highlight is Dura Cool's ability to reduce or even stop small leaks in mobile A/C systems. This isn't just convenient—it extends your system's life and cuts down on those frustrating maintenance calls.
From an environmental standpoint, Dura Cool refrigerant contains no chlorine, meaning zero ozone depletion potential. Its global warming potential is dramatically lower than HFC refrigerants too. With R-134a sitting at a GWP of 1,430 and R-410A at a whopping 2,088, the minimal GWP of Dura Cool makes it a clear environmental winner.
In marine applications, the improvements are just as impressive. DuraCooler keel coolers with their streamlined design boost coolant flow distribution by 35% and improve heat rejection in outer tubes by 45%. The bottom line? A 17% overall increase in heat transfer efficiency, allowing for smaller, more efficient cooling systems.
Perhaps most remarkable are the phase-change material cooling systems from Duraflow. These innovative systems can deliver over 90% cost and energy savings compared to traditional air conditioning. By storing and releasing thermal energy during phase transitions, they dramatically reduce the need for energy-intensive mechanical cooling. Latest research on phase-change cooling
Environmental Credentials of Dura Cool Products
Beyond just performance advantages, Dura Cool products are helping businesses like ours reduce their environmental footprint in meaningful ways.
The hydrocarbon refrigerants at the heart of Dura Cool technology have virtually zero impact on ozone depletion and a tiny fraction of the global warming potential compared to conventional refrigerants. This matters tremendously as regulations continue to tighten around high-GWP refrigerants worldwide.
We've been particularly impressed with Duraflow's PCM cooling technology, which can slash CO₂ emissions by over 90% compared to conventional air conditioning. That's not just an incremental improvement—it's a game-changer for businesses serious about sustainability.
Even the materials choices reflect environmental consciousness. Duracool Patios use domestic aluminum that can be recycled again and again, while the premium Duracoat XT40 paint ensures these products last for years without needing replacement or reapplication. Less waste, fewer resources consumed—it's a win-win.
The improved efficiency of DuraCooler keel coolers means marine engines operate more efficiently, burning less fuel and producing fewer emissions. And those Dura Cool evaporative pads? Their durability means less frequent replacement and less waste compared to traditional paper pads that deteriorate quickly.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we take special pride in incorporating these environmentally responsible technologies into our mortuary cooling systems. Our funeral home clients appreciate that they can maintain essential preservation capabilities while reducing their environmental impact. It's not just about staying cool—it's about staying cool responsibly. Scientific research on heat-exchanger materials
The environmental benefits of Dura Cool technology align perfectly with increasing regulatory pressures and growing consumer demand for sustainable cooling solutions. As global warming concerns intensify, the low-GWP characteristics of these products position them favorably in an evolving marketplace where environmental performance matters more every day.
Buying Guide, Warranty & Safety Compliance
So you're interested in Dura Cool products? Let's talk about how to get your hands on them, what kind of protection you'll have, and how to stay on the right side of safety regulations – all without getting lost in industry jargon.
How to Purchase Dura Cool in Your Region
Finding Dura Cool products is pretty straightforward once you know where to look. Each product type has its own network of sellers:
For Duracool Refrigerant, your best bet is Deepfreeze Refrigerants Inc., a trusted Canadian company that distributes throughout North America. You'll find their products at automotive parts stores, HVAC suppliers, and online shops. Just keep in mind there's usually a $10 minimum order, and they ship across the lower 48 states.
If you're looking for those super-efficient Dura-Cool Evaporative Cooler Pads from Dial Manufacturing, check out your local HVAC wholesaler, home improvement store, or online retailers. They come in pre-cut pads (look for part numbers 3060-3075) or rolls (part numbers 3078-3095) to fit whatever cooler size you have. The standard 24" x 30" pads with 1" thickness are most common.
Boat owners interested in DuraCooler Keel Coolers can contact Duramax Marine directly or work through marine equipment suppliers. These aren't one-size-fits-all products – they're custom-engineered to match your specific vessel requirements, available in both through-hull nozzle and flange-mount designs.
For outdoor shade solutions, Duracool Patios sells directly through their website. Their products proudly feature American-made aluminum and that premium Duracoat XT40 paint that stands up to the elements year after year.
Need a walk-in cooler? Arctic Industries (who bought Duracold) makes systems with Dura Cool technology at their facilities in Miami and Los Angeles. You'll need to contact a foodservice equipment dealer or refrigeration specialist to place an order.
Here at American Mortuary Coolers, we've incorporated Dura Cool technology into our custom mortuary coolers, which we deliver directly to funeral homes across the contiguous 48 states from our Tennessee headquarters. With our presence in Johnson City TN, Atlanta GA, Chicago IL, Columbia SC, Dallas TX, Los Angeles, New York NY, and Pittsburgh PA, we're never too far away when you need support.
Safety & Regulatory Checklist for Dura Cool Users
Using Dura Cool products comes with some important safety considerations and regulations to keep in mind:
For Duracool Refrigerant, safety starts with understanding its A3 flammability classification. This hydrocarbon refrigerant requires proper handling procedures and safety measures during installation. It's also subject to EPA Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) rules, so double-check the current status for your specific application.
We strongly recommend having certified technicians handle installation, especially for automotive uses. They'll have the right hydrocarbon-compatible leak detectors for service and know the Department of Transportation regulations for safely transporting these flammable materials.
If you're installing DuraCooler Keel Coolers, be aware that the American Bureau of Shipping requires a sea chest or cofferdam for through-hull installations. Your installation must also comply with relevant marine classification society requirements – something your marine engineer should be familiar with.
For Walk-In Coolers, some components may require California Proposition 65 warnings about chemical exposure. These systems must also meet Department of Energy efficiency standards, and if you're using them for food storage, they need to comply with NSF/ANSI food safety standards.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we ensure all our mortuary coolers meet or exceed these safety standards and regulatory requirements. It's one less thing for funeral professionals to worry about.
Maximizing Service Life & Support
Getting the most value from your Dura Cool products means understanding both warranty coverage and proper maintenance:
When it comes to warranties, Duracool Refrigerant offers a written guarantee against component damage, while Dura-Cool Evaporative Pads typically come with a 90-day manufacturer warranty. DuraCooler Keel Coolers offer extended warranties based on your specific application, and Duracool Patios provide comprehensive protection against manufacturing defects. For Arctic Industries Walk-In Coolers, you can choose between standard and extended warranty options.
To keep your evaporative cooler pads working efficiently, clean them regularly to remove mineral deposits, and plan to replace them when efficiency drops (usually after 1-3 seasons, depending on your water quality). Don't forget to winterize them if you're in a seasonal climate.
Keel cooler maintenance is pretty straightforward: regularly inspect for marine growth, verify proper coolant flow, and check for electrolysis (implementing appropriate protection measures when needed).
For walk-in coolers, keep an eye on those door gaskets, clean your condenser coils regularly, verify your temperature monitoring system is working correctly, and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for refrigeration system maintenance.
Here at American Mortuary Coolers, we provide comprehensive support for all our Dura Cool-equipped mortuary coolers. From installation guidance to maintenance recommendations and responsive service, we're committed to helping you get years of reliable service from your cooling system. More info about advanced cooler features
Frequently Asked Questions about Dura Cool Refrigerant
Is Dura Cool compatible with my existing R-12 or R-134a system?
Good news! Dura Cool refrigerant works beautifully with systems originally designed for R-12 or R-134a. You won't need to overhaul your entire system or make complicated modifications – it's designed to be a straightforward replacement after properly evacuating your system.
What makes the transition so smooth? Dura Cool plays nicely with the mineral oil found in R-12 systems and the PAG oils in R-134a systems. In most cases, you won't even need an oil change. The folks behind Dura Cool are so confident in their product that they provide a written guarantee that it won't harm any component of your A/C system – that includes all those delicate seals and gaskets.
Your system will actually run at lower pressures with Dura Cool compared to R-134a, which can extend the life of your components by reducing strain. And here's a nice bonus: you'll need about 30-40% less Dura Cool by weight than your original refrigerant charge, making it more economical.
One quick note of caution – while Dura Cool is technically compatible with your system, some vehicle manufacturers have specific policies about alternative refrigerants that might affect your warranty. We always recommend having a qualified technician familiar with hydrocarbon refrigerants handle the installation for best results.
How does Dura Cool reduce or seal small A/C leaks?
One thing our customers love about Dura Cool is its almost magical ability to reduce or completely stop those annoying small leaks in mobile A/C systems. It's not actually magic, though – just clever chemistry and physics!
The hydrocarbon molecules in Dura Cool are physically larger than those in traditional HFC refrigerants, which means they're less likely to squeeze through tiny leak points. Think of it like trying to push a tennis ball through a hole versus a marble – the bigger object has a harder time escaping.
Dura Cool also mixes exceptionally well with your system's oils, helping to carry that oil to leak points where it can assist in creating a natural seal. When it encounters moisture at a leak point, a reaction can occur that helps form a temporary seal. The lower operating pressures in your system when using Dura Cool also mean there's less force pushing refrigerant through small leaks.
I should emphasize that Dura Cool works best on very small leaks. If you've got refrigerant gushing out somewhere, you'll still need a proper repair. Think of the leak-sealing benefit as a way to extend your system's life between proper repairs – not a permanent fix for significant damage.
What safety precautions should I follow when charging with Dura Cool?
Safety first! Dura Cool is a hydrocarbon-based refrigerant, which means it requires respect and specific precautions during handling and charging.
The most important thing to remember is that Dura Cool is flammable, so you'll need to eliminate all potential ignition sources from your work area. This includes obvious things like open flames and cigarettes, but also less obvious sources like non-explosion-proof electrical equipment.
Always work in a well-ventilated area to prevent any buildup of refrigerant vapors. The equipment you use for charging should be specifically rated for use with flammable (A3 classification) refrigerants.
Before you even think about charging, make sure your system doesn't have any significant leaks that could release refrigerant. The proper charging procedure involves thoroughly evacuating the system, charging by weight (remember, you'll need about 30-40% less than your original refrigerant charge), using a charging scale for accuracy, and charging in liquid phase rather than vapor phase.
After charging, be sure to apply appropriate labels indicating the system contains flammable refrigerant. For leak testing, use soap solution or electronic leak detectors specifically designed for hydrocarbon refrigerants.
While Dura Cool has an excellent safety record when handled properly, we strongly recommend that professional technicians receive specific training on working with hydrocarbon refrigerants before tackling the job. At American Mortuary Coolers, we ensure all our technicians are properly trained when working with these advanced refrigerants in our mortuary cooling systems.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our journey through the Dura Cool universe, it's clear these innovative cooling solutions have made their mark across numerous industries. From the roads of North America to the open seas, from commercial kitchens to funeral homes, Dura Cool technologies are quietly revolutionizing how we think about cooling.
The beauty of Dura Cool products lies in their clever engineering. Take those DuraCooler keel coolers with their streamlined headers that boost heat transfer by a remarkable 17% – that's not just a small improvement, it's a game-changer for marine vessels. Or consider those phase change materials that slash energy consumption by a whopping 90% compared to traditional cooling methods. These aren't just incremental improvements; they represent fundamental rethinking of cooling technology.
What makes me particularly proud to work with Dura Cool products is their environmental consciousness. In a world increasingly concerned about climate impact, Dura Cool refrigerant stands tall with zero ozone depletion potential and minimal global warming impact. You can literally cool your space while warming your heart knowing you're making a more responsible choice.
The proof, as they say, is in the pudding – or in this case, in the millions of vehicles across North America happily running on Duracool refrigerant. Countless marine vessels cruise the waters with DuraCooler technology keeping their engines at optimal temperature. Commercial buildings stay perfectly chilled with Dura Cool systems humming efficiently in the background.
I'm particularly proud that many Dura Cool products wave the American flag proudly. From Duracool Patios to Arctic Industries walk-in coolers, these American-made solutions support domestic manufacturing while maintaining the quality standards we've come to expect.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we've acceptd Dura Cool technology in our custom mortuary refrigeration solutions for good reason. From our home base in Tennessee, we deliver these specialized systems to funeral homes throughout the lower 48 states, providing the rock-solid reliability and energy efficiency that funeral professionals absolutely need – no compromises.
With our presence in major cities like Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, New York, and Pittsburgh, we're never far away when you need support. By marrying Dura Cool's advanced cooling technology with our deep understanding of mortuary refrigeration needs, we create cooling solutions perfectly custom to the unique demands of the funeral industry.
Whether you've been reading to learn about hydrocarbon refrigerants, exploring evaporative cooling options, researching marine heat exchangers, or looking into specialized walk-in coolers, I hope this guide has illuminated Dura Cool technology for you. And remember, for custom mortuary cooling solutions incorporating these cutting-edge technologies, American Mortuary Coolers remains your one-stop shop for mortuary coolers.