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

This transition will minimize the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will employ new class of refrigerants that are more compatible with climate goals. If you're contemplating getting an AC replacement soon, this is the opportune time to investigate how these updates 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 of its effectiveness. But research showed that R-410a still affects global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established a plan back in 2021. The industry will gradually eliminate 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, homeowners like you had to follow suit. And just like then, this transition will influence how systems are engineered as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians must prepare for these new refrigerants if they want to continue enjoying the most reliable, most economical 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 effective cooling while substantially decreasing 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% lower than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is actually 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 significantly more energy efficient, resulting in substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you maintain your system with routine HVAC maintenance.

This switch isn't only about replacing the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the components of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. Ultimately, every residence and business using R-410a will need to upgrade to one of the new systems.

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

Transitioning to the new refrigerants will not 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 them in a system that uses R-410a.  But rest assured—you can still use your current R-410a system for now. Just be aware that as time goes on, the price of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes harder to find.

Preparing in advance is the most effective way to handle things. If your AC system is currently getting old, this is the perfect time to consider upgrading to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at County Line Mechanical LLC can help you in upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What Type of Cooling Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?

Unsure which refrigerant your AC system uses? In general, you can easily find 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 can't read the label or don't have your user manual, don't worry! You can always connect with one of the skilled technicians at County Line Mechanical LLC to help you in figuring it out. Get all the information you need by giving us a call at 717-216-0846.