New HVAC Refrigerant in 2025: Significant Changes Will Go into Effect for HVAC Coolants.

Significant changes are coming 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 arriving in 2025. These new coolants are developed to be better for the environment and satisfy new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and upcoming services?

This change will reduce 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 opportune time to learn more about how these new refrigerants can influence your home's comfort.

Why Exactly Is R-410a Being Phased Out?

For years, R-410a was the go-to refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its efficiency. But analysis revealed that R-410a still contributes to global warming. Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented a plan back in 2021. The industry will progressively eliminate R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.

The HVAC industry has undergone shifts like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to adjust. And just like then, this change will affect how systems are designed as well as the optimal methods for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians must plan for these new refrigerants if they want to continue enjoying the safest, most economical cooling possible.

New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?

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

R-454B refrigerant is anticipated to be particularly efficient due to its GWP being around 78% lower than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is technically more flammable than R-410a, updates to system manufacturing 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, resulting in big 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 not suitable for use in older systems. In time, every residence and business using R-410a will have to switch 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 easy 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 be concerned—you can continue to use your current R-410a system for now. Just remember that as time goes on, the price of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes harder to find.

Planning ahead is the best way to handle things. If your AC system is already aging, this is the ideal time to contemplate upgrading to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the team here at Done Right Air can support you with making the transition 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 examining the label on your outdoor unit. This label shows the type of refrigerant, the model number and numerous other particulars 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 expert technicians at Done Right Air to assist you in figuring it out. Get all the information you need by contacting us at 414-208-9000.