New HVAC Refrigerant in 2025: Major Changes Are Coming for HVAC Coolants.

Big changes are coming for the heating and cooling industry! Cooling systems moving from R-410a to newer refrigerants like R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant will be implemented in 2025. These new coolants are designed to be friendlier to the environment and meet new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your current HVAC system and future services?

This transition will decrease the environmental effect of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will utilize a a different class of refrigerants that are more compatible with climate goals. If you're contemplating getting an AC replacement soon, this is the opportune time to explore how these new refrigerants can affect your home's comfort.

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

For years, R-410a was the go-to refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But studies uncovered that R-410a still affects global warming. Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established an initiative back in 2021. The industry will gradually eliminate R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are better for the environment.

The HVAC industry has made transitions like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, property owners like you had to adapt. And just like then, this change will impact how systems are constructed as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians must prepare for these new refrigerants if they wish to continue enjoying the most reliable, most economical cooling possible.

Which New Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The upcoming refrigerants are categorized under the new "A2L" classification and encompass the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're designed to provide the same efficient cooling while greatly lowering their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is anticipated to be especially efficient due to its GWP being around 78% less than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is technically more flammable than R-410a, enhancements to system configurations 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, leading to considerable savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

This switch isn't simply about swapping out the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the characteristics of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. Eventually, every household and business using R-410a will have to transition to one of the new systems.

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

Transitioning to the new refrigerants will not be as simple as substituting 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 them in a system that uses R-410a.  But don't worry—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 increase as R-410a becomes less available.

Anticipating the changes is the best way to handle things. If your AC system is already getting old, this is the best time to consider upgrading to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Stieferman Heating Company Inc can support you with upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What HVAC Refrigerant Does My Air Conditioner Use?

Not sure which refrigerant your AC system uses? 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 numerous other details about your cooling system.

But if you have difficulty reading the label or are missing your user manual, don't worry! You can always call one of the expert technicians at Stieferman Heating Company Inc to assist you in determining this information. Get all the details you need by giving us a call at 573-635-3547.