Major changes are on the way for the heating and cooling business! Cooling systems transitioning from R-410a to newer refrigerants like R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant will be arriving in 2025. These new coolants are engineered to be friendlier to the environment and meet revised regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and upcoming services?

This change will decrease the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will utilize a a different class of refrigerants that better align with climate goals. If you're considering getting an AC replacement soon, this is the ideal time to investigate how these changes can influence 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 efficiency. But studies showed that R-410a still affects global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established a strategy back in 2021. The industry will progressively phase out R-410a to replace it with refrigerants that are more environmentally friendly.

The HVAC industry has made changes like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, homeowners like you had to adapt. And similarly, this transition will influence how systems are engineered as well as the optimal methods for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians need to plan for these new refrigerants if they want to continue enjoying the safest, most economical cooling possible.

New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?

The upcoming refrigerants fall under the new "A2L" classification and encompass the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're designed to deliver the same powerful cooling while substantially decreasing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is believed to be especially efficient due to its GWP being about 78% lower than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, enhancements to system manufacturing and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, modern cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly more energy efficient, contributing to big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

This switch isn't only about replacing the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the properties of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. In time, every home and business using R-410a will be required to switch to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: What Do I Need to Do to Transition to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Transitioning to the new refrigerants isn't as simple as swapping out the new coolants with what's used in your home's HVAC system. That's because the unique properties of R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant mean you can't use them in a system that uses R-410a.  But don't worry—you can continue to use your current R-410a system for now. Just be aware that as time progresses, the cost of repairs and tune-ups will increase as R-410a becomes scarcer.

Planning ahead is the optimal way to manage things. If your AC system is currently aging, this is the best time to contemplate switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at E.B. Air can assist you in switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which HVAC Refrigerant Is in My Air Conditioner?

Uncertain which refrigerant your AC system utilizes? In general, you can easily locate this information by inspecting the label on your outdoor unit. This label shows the type of refrigerant, the model number and various other specifications about your cooling system.

But if you are unable to decipher the label or can't find your user manual, don't stress! You can always call one of the professional technicians at E.B. Air to assist you in determining this information. Get all the details you need by giving us a call at 979-335-4262.