New HVAC Refrigerant in 2025: Major Changes Are on the Horizon for HVAC Coolants.

Big 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 implemented in 2025. These new coolants are engineered to be more beneficial to the environment and meet revised regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and future services?

This transition will decrease the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. Starting with 2025, new AC systems will utilize new class of refrigerants that are more compatible with climate goals. If you're thinking about getting an AC replacement soon, this is the perfect time to explore how these new refrigerants can impact your home's comfort.

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

For a long time, R-410a was the standard refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But research showed that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted a strategy back in 2021. The industry will steadily phase out R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are better for the environment.

The HVAC industry has made transitions like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, homeowners like you had to adapt. And in the same way, this shift will impact how systems are engineered as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians should get ready for these new refrigerants if they want to continue enjoying the most secure, most cost-effective cooling possible.

New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?

The coming refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're developed to provide the same powerful cooling while substantially decreasing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is believed to be particularly useful due to its GWP being about 78% lower than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, improvements to system designs and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, contemporary cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly more energy efficient, contributing to substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you maintain your system with routine HVAC maintenance.

This switch isn't simply about changing the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the components of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. Eventually, every residence and business using R-410a will need to upgrade to one of the new systems.

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

Switching to the new refrigerants isn't as easy as replacing what's used in your current HVAC system. That's because the different 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 still use your current R-410a system for now. Just remember that as time passes, the price of repairs and tune-ups will go up as R-410a becomes harder to find.

Anticipating the changes is the most effective way to manage things. If your AC system is currently nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the perfect time to contemplate upgrading to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the team here at 249 Air can help you in switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which HVAC Refrigerant Is in My Air Conditioner?

Unsure which refrigerant your AC system employs? In general, you can easily learn this information by examining the label on your outdoor unit. This label displays the type of refrigerant, the model number and numerous other details about your cooling system.

But if you can't read the label or can't find your user manual, don't stress! You can always connect with one of the skilled technicians at 249 Air to assist you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the info you need by giving us a call at 832-263-1969.