Significant changes are on the horizon for the heating and cooling industry! 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 satisfy revised regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and any new services?

This shift will decrease the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will use a a different class of refrigerants that more closely match with climate goals. If you're thinking about getting an AC replacement soon, this is the ideal time to learn more about how these changes can influence 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 it worked so well. But studies revealed that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented a strategy back in 2021. The industry will gradually eliminate R-410a to replace it with refrigerants that are more environmentally friendly.

The HVAC industry has undergone changes 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 change will impact how systems are engineered as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians must get ready for these new refrigerants if they wish to keep experiencing the most secure, most cost-effective cooling possible.

Which New Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The new batch of refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're developed to offer the same effective cooling while significantly reducing 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. While R-454B refrigerant is technically more flammable than R-410a, improvements to system designs and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, modern cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are much more energy efficient, contributing to considerable savings on energy bills over time, especially if you maintain your system with routine HVAC maintenance.

This change isn't only about changing the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the components of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. Eventually, every household and business using R-410a will need 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 isn't as straightforward as swapping out the new coolants with what's used in your current HVAC system. That's because the unique properties of R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant make existing R-410a systems incompatible.  But rest assured—you can continue to use your current R-410a system for now. Just keep in mind that as time progresses, the price of repairs and tune-ups will go up as R-410a becomes less available.

Planning ahead is the most effective way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is currently getting old, this is the best time to contemplate investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at Home Comfort Heating & Air can assist you in upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What Type of Cooling Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?

Unsure which refrigerant your AC system utilizes? In general, you can easily find this information by checking 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 can't read the label or don't have your user manual, don't stress! You can always connect with one of the skilled technicians at Home Comfort Heating & Air to assist you in figuring it out. Get all the info you need by reaching out at 763-276-0617.