Significant changes are coming for the heating and cooling industry! Cooling systems shifting from R-410a to newer refrigerants like R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant will be coming in 2025. These new coolants are engineered 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 transition will decrease the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will employ a a different 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 changes can impact your home's comfort.
Why Are They Phasing Out R-410a for New HVAC Refrigerant?
For a long time, R-410a was the preferred refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its efficiency. But analysis uncovered that R-410a still affects global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established a strategy back in 2021. The industry will progressively discontinue R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.
The HVAC industry has implemented changes like this before. When the industry switched from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to follow suit. And just like then, this change will impact how systems are designed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians need to get ready for these new refrigerants if they wish to continue enjoying the most reliable, most economical cooling possible.
What Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?
The coming refrigerants fall under the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're created to deliver the same effective cooling while substantially decreasing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.
R-454B refrigerant is anticipated to be especially useful due to its GWP being approximately 78% lower than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is actually more flammable than R-410a, updates to system manufacturing and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, contemporary cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are much more energy efficient, resulting in big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.
This change isn't just about replacing the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the characteristics of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. Eventually, every household and business using R-410a will need to transition to one of the new systems.
R-410a Replacement: What Should I Consider in Order to Transition to New HVAC Refrigerants?
Changing to the new refrigerants will not be as easy as replacing what's used in your home's HVAC system. That's because the distinct properties of R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant make existing R-410a systems incompatible. But rest assured—you can keep using 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 scarcer.
Planning ahead is the best way to manage things. If your AC system is currently nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the ideal time to contemplate investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces can assist you in making the transition 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 examining the label on your outdoor unit. This label displays the type of refrigerant, the model number and many other specifications about your cooling system.
But if you have difficulty reading the label or are missing your user manual, don't worry! You can always call one of the skilled technicians at Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces to assist you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the info you need by giving us a call at 308-762-1613.