Major changes are on the horizon for the heating and cooling business! 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 engineered to be friendlier to the environment and meet updated regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your current HVAC system and any new services?

This shift will minimize the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. Starting with 2025, new AC systems will use an alternative class of refrigerants that are more compatible with climate goals. If you're contemplating getting an AC replacement soon, this is the ideal time to learn more about how these updates can influence your home's comfort.

Why Is R-410a Refrigerant Being Phased Out by New Regulations?

For a long time, R-410a was the go-to refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its efficiency. But analysis showed that R-410a still contributes to global warming. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted a strategy back in 2021. The industry will gradually phase out R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.

The HVAC industry has undergone shifts like this before. When the industry moved away from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, homeowners like you had to follow suit. And similarly, this change will influence how systems are constructed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians must prepare for these new refrigerants if they wish to keep experiencing the most secure, most cost-effective cooling possible.

New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?

The upcoming refrigerants fall under the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're developed to provide the same efficient cooling while substantially decreasing 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, updates to system manufacturing and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, contemporary cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly more energy efficient, contributing to big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

This switch isn't just about swapping out the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the properties of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. In time, every home and business using R-410a will have to switch to one of the new systems.

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

Switching to the new refrigerants won't be as easy as replacing 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 them in a system that uses R-410a.  But don't be concerned—you can keep using your current R-410a system for now. Just know that as time progresses, the cost of repairs and tune-ups will go up as R-410a becomes scarcer.

Planning ahead is the best way to manage things. If your AC system is currently nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the best time to think about upgrading to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at B&D Air Conditioning can support you with switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What HVAC Refrigerant Does My Air Conditioner Use?

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

But if you have difficulty reading the label or can't find your user manual, don't stress! You can always connect with one of the expert technicians at B&D Air Conditioning to assist you in figuring it out. Get all the details you need by giving us a call at 928-432-6018.