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

Big changes are on the way 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 arriving in 2025. These new coolants are designed to be friendlier to the environment and meet updated regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and any new services?

This transition will minimize the environmental effect of our air conditioning systems. Starting with 2025, new AC systems will employ an alternative class of refrigerants that more closely match with climate goals. If you're considering getting an AC replacement soon, this is the ideal time to learn more about how these changes can influence 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 uncovered that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented a plan back in 2021. The industry will gradually eliminate R-410a to replace it with refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.

The HVAC industry has undergone changes like this before. When the industry switched from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, homeowners like you had to follow suit. And similarly, this transition will affect how systems are designed as well as the optimal methods for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians should get ready for these new refrigerants if they wish to keep experiencing 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 designed to provide the same efficient cooling while greatly lowering their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is believed to be particularly effective due to its GWP being approximately 78% lower than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is actually more flammable than R-410a, updates to system configurations and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, today's cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are considerably 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 just about replacing the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the properties of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. In time, every household and business using R-410a will be required to switch to one of the new systems.

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

Transitioning to the new refrigerants won't be as straightforward as replacing what's used in your home's HVAC system. That's because the different properties of R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant mean you can't use them in a system that uses R-410a.  But rest assured—you can continue to use your current R-410a system for now. Just be aware that as time goes on, the price of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes less available.

Anticipating the changes is the most effective way to handle things. If your AC system is already getting old, this is the ideal time to consider investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Stanford Heating & Cooling can support you with upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which HVAC Refrigerant Is in My Air Conditioner?

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

But if you can't read the label or can't find your user manual, don't worry! You can always call one of the expert technicians at Stanford Heating & Cooling to assist you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the details you need by giving us a call at 812-825-8695.