Major changes are on the horizon 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 arriving in 2025. These new coolants are designed to be more beneficial to the environment and meet new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and future services?

This change will decrease the environmental impact 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 investigate how these updates can affect your home's comfort.

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

For years, R-410a was the go-to refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But research revealed that R-410a still contributes to global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented a strategy back in 2021. The industry will gradually discontinue R-410a to replace it with refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.

The HVAC industry has implemented transitions like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, property owners like you had to adapt. 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 need to prepare for these new refrigerants if they want to keep experiencing the most secure, most energy-efficient cooling possible.

New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?

The new batch of refrigerants are categorized under the new "A2L" classification and encompass the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're developed to offer the same powerful cooling while greatly lowering their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is anticipated to be particularly useful due to its GWP being around 78% less than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, updates to system configurations and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, today's cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are much more energy efficient, resulting in considerable savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

This change isn't just about substituting the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the components of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. In time, every household and business using R-410a will be required to transition to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: What Do I Need to Do to Switch to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Transitioning to the new refrigerants will not be as easy as substituting what's used in your home's HVAC system. That's because the distinct 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 still use your current R-410a system for now. Just be aware that as time passes, the price of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes scarcer.

Planning ahead is the optimal way to manage 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 staff here at Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc can support you with 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 learn this information by examining the label on your outdoor unit. This label indicates the type of refrigerant, the model number and numerous other specifications 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 call one of the professional technicians at Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc to help you in figuring it out. Get all the info you need by giving us a call at 715-301-0256.