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

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

This transition will decrease the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. Starting with 2025, new AC systems will utilize a a different class of refrigerants that better align with climate goals. If you're contemplating getting an AC replacement soon, this is the ideal time to explore how these updates can influence your home's comfort.

Why Are They Phasing Out R-410a for New HVAC Refrigerant?

For years, R-410a was the go-to refrigerant for residential air conditioners because it worked so well. But analysis showed that R-410a still affects global warming. Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established an initiative back in 2021. The industry will progressively eliminate R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.

The HVAC industry has made changes like this before. When the industry moved away from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to adapt. And similarly, this shift will impact how systems are designed as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians must prepare for these new refrigerants if they want to continue enjoying the most secure, most cost-effective cooling possible.

What Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The new batch of refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're designed to provide 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% lower than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, improvements to system designs and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, contemporary cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are considerably more energy efficient, resulting in substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

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

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

Switching to the new refrigerants isn't as straightforward as swapping out the new coolants with what's used in your current HVAC system. That's because the distinct 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 be concerned—you can keep using your current R-410a system for now. Just keep in mind that as time passes, the cost of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes scarcer.

Anticipating the changes is the optimal way to manage things. If your AC system is already getting old, this is the best time to contemplate switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Air Concepts of Middle Georgia can help you in upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which Refrigerant Is in My AC System?

Uncertain which refrigerant your AC system employs? In general, you can easily learn 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 call one of the expert technicians at Air Concepts of Middle Georgia to help you in figuring it out. Get all the info you need by giving us a call at 478-200-5689.