Significant changes are on the horizon for the heating and cooling industry! 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 comply with new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and upcoming services?

This shift will decrease the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will employ 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 investigate how these changes can affect your home's comfort.

Why Exactly Is R-410a Being Phased Out?

For years, R-410a was the standard refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its efficiency. But studies uncovered that R-410a still contributes to global warming. Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established 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 switched from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to adjust. And just like then, this transition will impact how systems are engineered as well as the optimal methods for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians must plan for these new refrigerants if they wish to continue enjoying the most reliable, most economical cooling possible.

New HVAC Refrigerants 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 designed to deliver the same powerful cooling while substantially decreasing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is expected to be especially effective due to its GWP being around 78% less than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is technically more flammable than R-410a, improvements to system designs and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, today's cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are much more energy efficient, resulting in considerable savings on energy bills over time, especially if you maintain your system with routine HVAC maintenance.

This transition isn't just about swapping out the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the characteristics 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 switch to one of the new systems.

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

Transitioning to the new refrigerants isn't as straightforward as replacing what's used in your current 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 know that as time goes on, the cost of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes scarcer.

Preparing in advance is the best way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is currently aging, this is the ideal time to think about switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Assured Appliance & Heating & Air can support you with upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What Type of Cooling Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?

Not sure which refrigerant your AC system employs? In general, you can easily learn this information by examining the label on your outdoor unit. This label indicates 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 worry! You can always call one of the skilled technicians at Assured Appliance & Heating & Air to help you in determining this information. Get all the details you need by contacting us at 847-306-8990.