New HVAC Refrigerant in 2025: Major Changes Are Coming for HVAC Coolants.

Big changes are coming 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 better for the environment and comply with new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and any new services?

This transition will decrease the environmental effect of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will use an alternative class of refrigerants that are more compatible with climate goals. If you're contemplating getting an AC replacement soon, this is the perfect time to learn more about how these new refrigerants can impact your home's comfort.

Why Is R-410a Refrigerant Being Phased Out by New Regulations?

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. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted a plan back in 2021. The industry will steadily phase out R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are better for the environment.

The HVAC industry has undergone changes like this before. When the industry switched from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to adjust. And similarly, this shift will influence how systems are engineered as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians should prepare for these new refrigerants if they wish to keep experiencing the safest, most energy-efficient cooling possible.

New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?

The upcoming refrigerants fall under the new "A2L" classification and encompass the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're designed to provide the same efficient cooling while significantly reducing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is believed to be particularly effective due to its GWP being about 78% lower than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is technically more flammable than R-410a, enhancements to system configurations and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, today's cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are much more energy efficient, leading to big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

This change isn't only about substituting the refrigerant—it affects 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 switch to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: What Should I Consider in Order to Switch to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Switching to the new refrigerants will not be as simple as swapping out the new coolants with 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 know that as time passes, the price of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes harder to find.

Anticipating the changes is the most effective way to handle things. If your AC system is currently getting old, this is the best time to think about investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the team here at Custom Air Systems Inc can assist you in switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What Type of Cooling Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?

Unsure which refrigerant your AC system employs? In general, you can easily locate this information by examining the label on your outdoor unit. This label indicates the type of refrigerant, the model number and numerous other particulars about your cooling system.

But if you are unable to decipher the label or don't have your user manual, don't worry! You can always connect with one of the expert technicians at Custom Air Systems Inc to assist you in figuring it out. Get all the info you need by giving us a call at 772-247-2283.