Why are ammonia systems rarely used for air conditioning in large buildings?

Ammonia is rarely used for air conditioning in large buildings primarily due to its toxic nature. While ammonia is an excellent refrigerant and has high efficiency in certain industrial applications, its toxicity poses significant safety risks. Exposure to ammonia can result in severe respiratory issues, skin irritation, and other health hazards. Consequently, handling and storage protocols for ammonia require stringent safety measures, making its use in places with high occupancy, such as large buildings, more complicated and risky.

The need for extensive safety precautions and potential liability issues often leads building managers to opt for refrigerants that are less hazardous, thereby reducing the inherent risks to occupants and maintenance staff. This concern for health and safety in large public spaces is a key factor influencing the choice of refrigerants for air conditioning systems.