Big changes are on the horizon 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 developed to be better for the environment and satisfy new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and upcoming services?

This shift will decrease the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will utilize an alternative 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 changes can affect your home's comfort.

Why Exactly Is R-410a Being Phased Out?

For years, R-410a was the preferred refrigerant for residential air conditioners because it worked so well. But analysis uncovered that R-410a still contributes to global warming. Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted an initiative back in 2021. The industry will steadily eliminate R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.

The HVAC industry has undergone shifts like this before. When the industry moved away from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, property owners like you had to adjust. And just like then, this change will affect how systems are constructed as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians should get ready for these new refrigerants if they wish to keep experiencing the safest, most energy-efficient cooling possible.

New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?

The new batch of refrigerants fall under the new "A2L" classification and encompass 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% less than R-410a. While 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, today's cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly more energy efficient, leading to considerable savings on energy bills over time, especially if you stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.

This transition 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. Ultimately, every home and business using R-410a will be required to upgrade to one of the new systems.

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

Switching to the new refrigerants won't be as easy as substituting 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 the new refrigerants in a system designed to use R-410a.  But rest assured—you can still use your current R-410a system for now. Just remember that as time goes on, the cost of repairs and tune-ups will increase as R-410a becomes harder to find.

Planning ahead is the best way to manage things. If your AC system is already aging, this is the ideal time to think about investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the team here at Age Heating & Cooling can assist you in making the transition with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What Type of Cooling Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?

Unsure which refrigerant your AC system utilizes? 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 particulars about your cooling system.

But if you have difficulty reading the label or can't find your user manual, remain calm! You can always connect with one of the expert technicians at Age Heating & Cooling to help you in figuring it out. Get all the information you need by giving us a call at 208-603-2210.