Major 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 coming in 2025. These new coolants are developed to be friendlier to the environment and comply with new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your current HVAC system and future services?

This change will decrease the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will employ an alternative class of refrigerants that better align with climate goals. If you're contemplating getting an AC replacement soon, this is the perfect time to explore 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 standard refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But analysis revealed that R-410a still affects global warming. Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented an initiative back in 2021. The industry will progressively phase out R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are more environmentally friendly.

The HVAC industry has made shifts like this before. When the industry moved away from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, property owners like you had to follow suit. And just like then, this change will affect how systems are constructed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians need to plan for these new refrigerants if they want to continue enjoying the most secure, most cost-effective cooling possible.

What Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The upcoming refrigerants are categorized 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 believed to be especially effective due to its GWP being around 78% less than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is actually more flammable than R-410a, improvements to system configurations and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, modern cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are considerably 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 simply about changing the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the characteristics of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. Eventually, every home and business using R-410a will need to upgrade to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: How Can I Prepare to Change to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Switching to the new refrigerants will not be as simple as replacing what's used in your current HVAC system. That's because the unique 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 worry—you can keep using your current R-410a system for now. Just know that as time progresses, the price of repairs and tune-ups will go up as R-410a becomes less available.

Preparing in advance is the optimal way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is currently aging, this is the best time to contemplate switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling can support you with upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What Type of Cooling Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?

Not sure which refrigerant your AC system employs? In general, you can easily find this information by inspecting the label on your outdoor unit. This label shows the type of refrigerant, the model number and various other specifications about your cooling system.

But if you can't read the label or don't have your user manual, don't worry! You can always connect with one of the professional technicians at Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling to assist you in determining this information. Get all the info you need by contacting us at 740-474-5940.