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

Major changes are on the horizon for the heating and cooling business! Cooling systems shifting 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 better for the environment and satisfy updated regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and any new services?

This shift will decrease the environmental effect of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will use new class of refrigerants that better align with climate goals. If you're considering getting an AC replacement soon, this is the ideal time to learn more about how these new refrigerants can affect your home's comfort.

Why Are They Phasing Out R-410a for New HVAC Refrigerant?

For years, R-410a was the preferred refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its efficiency. But research uncovered that R-410a still contributes to global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established a plan back in 2021. The industry will gradually phase out R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.

The HVAC industry has undergone changes like this before. When the industry moved away from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to follow suit. And just like then, this change will affect how systems are designed as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians must plan for these new refrigerants if they wish to keep experiencing the most secure, most economical cooling possible.

New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?

The coming refrigerants are categorized under the new "A2L" classification and include the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're created to offer the same efficient cooling while significantly reducing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is expected 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, updates to system designs and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, modern cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are considerably more energy efficient, contributing to substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

This transition isn't only about changing 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 household and business using R-410a will need to switch to one of the new systems.

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

Switching to the new refrigerants won't be as straightforward as substituting what's used in your current HVAC system. That's because the unique properties of R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant make existing R-410a systems incompatible.  But don't be concerned—you can keep using 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 best way to manage things. If your AC system is already aging, this is the ideal time to contemplate switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the team here at Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning can help you in upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which HVAC Refrigerant Is in My Air Conditioner?

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

But if you have difficulty reading the label or don't have your user manual, don't stress! You can always connect with one of the professional technicians at Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning to help you in figuring it out. Get all the details you need by reaching out at 405-494-7444.