Major changes are on the way 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 implemented in 2025. These new coolants are engineered to be friendlier to the environment and meet updated regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and upcoming services?

This change will minimize the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. Starting with 2025, new AC systems will utilize a a different class of refrigerants that better align with climate goals. If you're considering getting an AC replacement soon, this is the perfect 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 a long time, R-410a was the standard refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its efficiency. But analysis revealed that R-410a still contributes to global warming. Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented an initiative back in 2021. The industry will progressively phase out R-410a to replace it with refrigerants that are more environmentally 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 follow suit. And just like then, this transition will affect how systems are constructed as well as the optimal methods for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians must prepare for these new refrigerants if they want to keep experiencing the safest, most cost-effective cooling possible.

New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?

The upcoming refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and include the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're created to deliver the same efficient 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 around 78% lower than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is actually more flammable than R-410a, enhancements to system designs and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, contemporary cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are considerably more energy efficient, resulting in big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

This switch isn't only about swapping out the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the components of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. In time, 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 Make the Shift to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Changing to the new refrigerants will not be as straightforward as substituting 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 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 increase as R-410a becomes less available.

Preparing in advance is the most effective way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is already getting old, this is the ideal time to consider investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at PS Cool Heat can help you in upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which Refrigerant Is in My AC System?

Unsure which refrigerant your AC system utilizes? 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 details about your cooling system.

But if you are unable to decipher the label or don't have your user manual, don't stress! You can always connect with one of the skilled technicians at PS Cool Heat to assist you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the info you need by reaching out at 720-613-2210.