Big changes are on the way for the heating and cooling industry! Cooling systems moving from R-410a to newer refrigerants like R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant will be implemented in 2025. These new coolants are developed to be more beneficial to the environment and meet new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and upcoming services?

This change will decrease the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will use new class of refrigerants that more closely match with climate goals. If you're considering getting an AC replacement soon, this is the perfect time to investigate how these changes can impact your home's comfort.

Why Is R-410a Refrigerant Being Phased Out by New Regulations?

For years, R-410a was the standard refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But studies uncovered that R-410a still contributes to global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented a strategy back in 2021. The industry will progressively phase out R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.

The HVAC industry has made shifts like this before. When the industry moved away from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to adjust. And similarly, this transition will influence how systems are constructed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians need to plan for these new refrigerants if they want to keep experiencing the most secure, most cost-effective cooling possible.

Which New Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The coming refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and include the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're created to deliver the same powerful cooling while greatly lowering their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is expected to be particularly effective due to its GWP being approximately 78% less than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is actually more flammable than R-410a, improvements to system designs and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, contemporary cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are considerably more energy efficient, contributing to substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.

This change isn't just about substituting the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the characteristics of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. Ultimately, every home and business using R-410a will have to switch to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: What Should I Consider in Order to Switch to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Changing to the new refrigerants isn't as simple as swapping out the new coolants with what's used in your current HVAC system. That's because the unique properties of R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant mean you can't use the new refrigerants in a system designed to use R-410a.  But don't be concerned—you can still use your current R-410a system for now. Just be aware that as time passes, the price of repairs and tune-ups will increase as R-410a becomes less available.

Anticipating the changes is the optimal way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is currently getting old, this is the best time to consider investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at Reliant Heating and Air Conditioning can assist you in switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which Refrigerant Is in My AC System?

Not sure which refrigerant your AC system employs? In general, you can easily locate this information by inspecting the label on your outdoor unit. This label indicates the type of refrigerant, the model number and many other details about your cooling system.

But if you have difficulty reading the label or can't find your user manual, remain calm! You can always call one of the skilled technicians at Reliant Heating and Air Conditioning to help you in determining this information. Get all the info you need by contacting us at 727-219-2325.