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

Major changes are coming for the heating and cooling industry! Cooling systems moving 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 updated regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and any new services?

This transition will decrease the environmental effect of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will employ new class of refrigerants that are more compatible with climate goals. If you're considering getting an AC replacement soon, this is the perfect time to investigate how these new refrigerants can affect your home's comfort.

Why Exactly Is R-410a Being Phased Out?

For years, R-410a was the go-to refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its efficiency. But studies showed that R-410a still contributes to global warming. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established a plan back in 2021. The industry will progressively phase out R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are better for the environment.

The HVAC industry has implemented transitions like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, homeowners like you had to follow suit. And in the same way, this change will affect how systems are designed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians must prepare for these new refrigerants if they wish to continue enjoying the safest, most economical cooling possible.

Which New Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The coming refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and encompass the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're engineered to offer the same effective cooling while greatly lowering their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is expected to be especially efficient due to its GWP being approximately 78% lower than R-410a. While 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, today's 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 change isn't only about swapping out the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the characteristics of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. In time, every home and business using R-410a will be required to transition to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: How Can I Prepare to Make the Shift to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Changing to the new refrigerants will not be as simple as replacing what's used in your home's HVAC system. That's because the unique properties of R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant make existing R-410a systems incompatible.  But don't worry—you can still use your current R-410a system for now. Just keep in mind that as time goes on, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will go up as R-410a becomes less available.

Planning ahead is the best way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is already aging, this is the ideal time to contemplate switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling can support you with making the transition with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which HVAC Refrigerant Is in My Air Conditioner?

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

But if you have difficulty reading the label or don't have your user manual, don't stress! You can always call one of the skilled technicians at Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling to assist you in determining this information. Get all the info you need by contacting us at 804-302-6657.