Major changes are on the way 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 engineered to be friendlier to the environment and satisfy updated regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and future services?

This change will decrease the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will use new class of refrigerants that more closely match with climate goals. If you're considering getting an AC replacement soon, this is the opportune time to learn more about how these changes can affect your home's comfort.

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

For a long time, R-410a was the standard refrigerant for residential air conditioners because it worked so well. But studies revealed that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established a plan back in 2021. The industry will gradually discontinue R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.

The HVAC industry has made transitions like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to follow suit. And similarly, this shift will influence how systems are constructed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians should plan for these new refrigerants if they want to keep experiencing the most secure, most economical cooling possible.

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

R-454B refrigerant is expected to be particularly useful due to its GWP being approximately 78% less than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is actually more flammable than R-410a, updates to system designs and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, modern cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are considerably more energy efficient, leading to considerable savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

This change isn't simply about swapping out the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the components of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. Eventually, every residence 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 won't be as simple as swapping out the new coolants with what's used in your current HVAC system. That's because the different 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 continue to use your current R-410a system for now. Just know that as time goes on, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will increase as R-410a becomes scarcer.

Anticipating the changes is the optimal way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is already getting old, this is the best time to think about switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning can support you with upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What Type of Cooling Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?

Uncertain which refrigerant your AC system utilizes? In general, you can easily find this information by examining the label on your outdoor unit. This label indicates the type of refrigerant, the model number and many other details about your cooling system.

But if you can't read the label or don't have your user manual, don't stress! You can always connect with one of the expert technicians at Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning to help you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the details you need by contacting us at 734-284-1224.