R-404A is a blend of R-125, R-143a, and R-134a, designed for medium and low-temperature refrigeration applications. It is widely used in commercial refrigeration systems, including supermarkets, cold storage, and transport refrigeration. R-404A provides excellent cooling performance but operates at higher pressures compared to older refrigerants like R-22.

Systems designed for R-404A are optimized to handle these pressures and utilize POE (Polyolester) lubricants to ensure compatibility. While retrofitting older systems for R-404A use is possible with proper modifications, professional consultation is strongly recommended to maintain efficiency and reliability. Known for its energy efficiency and performance under demanding conditions, R-404A is classified as non-toxic and non-flammable, meeting the A1 safety standard. However, as part of the global phase-down of HFCs, R-404A is being gradually replaced with lower-GWP alternatives for more sustainable operation.