New HVAC Refrigerant in 2025: Significant Changes Are on the Horizon for HVAC Coolants.

Major changes are on the horizon 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 comply with new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and upcoming services?

This transition will reduce the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will utilize an alternative class of refrigerants that better align with climate goals. If you're thinking about getting an AC replacement soon, this is the opportune time to explore how these changes can impact your home's comfort.

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

For years, R-410a was the standard refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But studies revealed that R-410a still affects global warming. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted an initiative back in 2021. The industry will progressively eliminate R-410a to replace it with refrigerants that are better for the environment.

The HVAC industry has undergone shifts like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to adjust. And in the same way, this transition will impact how systems are engineered as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians must plan for these new refrigerants if they want to continue enjoying the most secure, most energy-efficient cooling possible.

New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?

The coming 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 powerful cooling while greatly lowering their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is anticipated to be especially effective due to its GWP being about 78% lower than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is technically 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 much more energy efficient, leading to substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up 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. In time, every household and business using R-410a will be required to upgrade 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 straightforward 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 be concerned—you can continue to use your current R-410a system for now. Just be aware that as time goes on, the price of repairs and tune-ups will go up as R-410a becomes scarcer.

Planning ahead is the best way to handle things. If your AC system is already aging, 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 Just Right Heating and Cooling can support you with switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What HVAC Refrigerant Does My Air Conditioner Use?

Uncertain which refrigerant your AC system uses? In general, you can easily learn this information by examining 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 worry! You can always call one of the expert technicians at Just Right Heating and Cooling to help you in figuring it out. Get all the information you need by reaching out at 513-392-4969.