Significant changes are coming for the heating and cooling business! 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 developed to be better for the environment and meet new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and upcoming services?

This shift will decrease the environmental effect of our air conditioning systems. Starting with 2025, new AC systems will use new class of refrigerants that better align with climate goals. If you're contemplating getting an AC replacement soon, this is the perfect time to learn more about how these updates can affect your home's comfort.

Why Exactly Is R-410a Being Phased Out?

For a long time, R-410a was the go-to refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its efficiency. But research revealed that R-410a still affects global warming. Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established an initiative back in 2021. The industry will steadily discontinue R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are better for the environment.

The HVAC industry has undergone changes like this before. When the industry moved away from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to follow suit. And just like then, this shift will influence how systems are designed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians must prepare for these new refrigerants if they want to continue enjoying the most secure, most energy-efficient cooling possible.

Which New Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The new batch of refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and encompass the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're engineered to offer the same powerful cooling while substantially decreasing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is anticipated to be particularly effective due to its GWP being approximately 78% less than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is technically more flammable than R-410a, enhancements to system manufacturing 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 stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.

This change isn't only about swapping out the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the characteristics of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. In time, every home and business using R-410a will need to transition to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: How Can I Prepare to Make the Shift to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Switching to the new refrigerants isn't as simple 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 don't be concerned—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 scarcer.

Anticipating the changes is the most effective way to handle things. If your AC system is currently aging, this is the ideal time to think about investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at Advanced Service AC & Heating 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 employs? In general, you can easily find this information by examining 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 are unable to decipher the label or are missing your user manual, don't stress! You can always call one of the skilled technicians at Advanced Service AC & Heating to assist you in determining this information. Get all the details you need by giving us a call at 301-371-8807.