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

Big 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 coming in 2025. These new coolants are designed to be more beneficial to the environment and meet new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and upcoming services?

This transition will minimize the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will utilize new class of refrigerants that are more compatible with climate goals. If you're considering getting an AC replacement soon, this is the opportune time to learn more about how these updates can influence your home's comfort.

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

For years, R-410a was the go-to refrigerant for residential air conditioners because it worked so well. But analysis revealed that R-410a still affects global warming. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted a strategy back in 2021. The industry will progressively eliminate R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.

The HVAC industry has undergone changes like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, property owners like you had to follow suit. And in the same way, this transition will influence how systems are constructed as well as the optimal methods for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians should get ready for these new refrigerants if they want to continue enjoying the most secure, most cost-effective cooling possible.

What Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The new batch of refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and encompass 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 effective due to its GWP being about 78% less than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, enhancements to system configurations and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, modern cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are much more energy efficient, resulting in big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

This transition isn't only about swapping out the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the properties 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 Should I Consider in Order to Transition to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Changing to the new refrigerants isn't as straightforward 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 don't worry—you can still use your current R-410a system for now. Just remember that as time goes on, the price of repairs and tune-ups will increase as R-410a becomes less available.

Preparing in advance is the best way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is already aging, this is the perfect time to consider investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the team here at Central Air LLC can help you in switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which Refrigerant Is in My AC System?

Unsure which refrigerant your AC system uses? In general, you can easily find this information by checking 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 can't read the label or can't find your user manual, don't stress! You can always connect with one of the professional technicians at Central Air LLC to assist you in determining this information. Get all the information you need by giving us a call at 203-357-5913.