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

Significant changes are on the horizon for the heating and cooling industry! Cooling systems transitioning from R-410a to newer refrigerants like R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant will be coming in 2025. These new coolants are designed 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 shift will minimize the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. Starting with 2025, new AC systems will employ new class of refrigerants that better align with climate goals. If you're thinking about getting an AC replacement soon, this is the perfect time to explore how these changes can impact your home's comfort.

Why Exactly Is R-410a Being Phased Out?

For years, R-410a was the standard refrigerant for residential air conditioners because it worked so well. But studies showed that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented a plan back in 2021. The industry will steadily 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 switched from using 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 designed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians need to plan for these new refrigerants if they wish to keep experiencing the most secure, most cost-effective cooling possible.

What Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The coming refrigerants are categorized under the new "A2L" classification and include the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're created to provide the same effective cooling while significantly reducing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is believed to be particularly useful due to its GWP being approximately 78% lower than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, enhancements to system manufacturing and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, modern cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are considerably more energy efficient, leading to substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you maintain your system with routine HVAC maintenance.

This switch isn't simply about replacing the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the properties of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. In time, every household and business using R-410a will need to transition to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: What Should I Consider in Order to Change to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Switching to the new refrigerants won't 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 make existing R-410a systems incompatible.  But rest assured—you can still use your current R-410a system for now. Just remember that as time goes on, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will increase as R-410a becomes harder to find.

Preparing in advance is the most effective way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is already getting old, this is the perfect time to think about investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at Classic Air can assist you in upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What Type of Cooling Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?

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

But if you have difficulty reading the label or can't find your user manual, remain calm! You can always call one of the skilled technicians at Classic Air to assist you in determining this information. Get all the information you need by contacting us at 614-210-3041.