
In This Article
The Future of Industrial Refrigeration Is Here
For business owners in cold storage, food and beverage production, and industrial refrigeration, the shift toward CO₂ refrigeration isn’t just about sustainability it’s about cutting costs, maximizing efficiency, and ensuring regulatory compliance. With increasing EPA regulations on traditional refrigerants, now is the time to upgrade to CO₂ systems to protect your bottom line and stay ahead of industry changes.
Why Industry Leaders Are Making the Switch
1. Cut Refrigeration Costs & Boost Efficiency
- Lower refrigerant costs: CO₂ costs around $3 per pound, compared to $20 or more for traditional refrigerants.
- Smaller compressors & piping: Reducing installation and maintenance expenses.
Enhanced energy efficiency – CO₂ systems operate with lower energy consumption, cutting utility bills. - Optimized heat recovery: Helping businesses lower operational costs and improve sustainability.
2. Ensure Compliance & Future Proof Your Business
- Eco Friendly: CO₂ has up to 4,000 times less impact on global warming than HFCs.
- No ozone depletion: A natural refrigerant with zero harm to the ozone layer.
- Regulation Ready: The EPA’s AIM Act is phasing out high GWP refrigerants. CO₂ is the long-term solution.
- Lower carbon footprint: CO₂ systems can reduce total emissions by 30% or more, critical for sustainability goals.
CO₂ Refrigeration Systems Designed for Your Industry
CO₂ refrigeration systems are customized for industrial applications, ensuring optimal efficiency for different environments.
- Subcritical CO₂ Systems Best for Warmer Climates
- Uses CO₂ as a secondary refrigerant to maintain efficiency. Options include cascade systems and liquid overfeed systems for different operational needs.
Benefits:
- Lower refrigerant charges and costs.
- Smaller piping sizes reduce material expenses.
- Better heat transfer for improved efficiency.
Transcritical CO₂ Systems Best for Colder Climates
- Operates in both subcritical and supercritical states.
- Includes gas cooler and receiver for effective pressure management.
- Variations include single circuit, booster, and transcritical cascade systems.
Challenges & How to Overcome Them
- CO₂ refrigeration is a game changer but it comes with initial considerations:
- Higher upfront equipment costs: Offset by reduced long-term operational expenses.
- Higher system pressures: Our experts at Hurckman Mechanical design systems for maximum safety and reliability.
Why Choose Hurckman Mechanical
We are one of the only Midwest’s leading contractors specializing in industrial refrigeration solutions for cold storage, food & beverage, and cheese production. Our expertise ensures:
- Custom solutions tailored to your facility’s needs.
- Decades of proven success with industry leaders.
- Cost-effective designs that reduce long-term expenses.
Take Action, Save Money & Stay Compliant
Don’t wait until regulations force a change get ahead now! Contact our CO₂ refrigeration specialists to explore a customized cost-saving solution for your business.

Contact Robert Leonowicz
VP of Industrial Operations/Sales
Robert Leonowicz, with HMI since 2007, brings 30 years of experience in industrial/mechanical fields, including the food industry. He's a steamfitter graduate and a U.S. patent awardee, passionate about HMI's growth. His hobbies include model railroading and golf.
Contact Robert Leonowiczor call at 920-371-1982