Significant changes are coming for the heating and cooling business! 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 comply with revised regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your current HVAC system and future services?

This change will minimize the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will utilize new 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 new refrigerants can impact your home's comfort.

Why Exactly Is R-410a Being Phased Out?

For a long time, R-410a was the preferred refrigerant for residential air conditioners because it worked so well. But studies revealed that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted a strategy back in 2021. The industry will progressively eliminate R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are more environmentally friendly.

The HVAC industry has undergone changes like this before. When the industry switched from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, property owners like you had to adjust. And in the same way, this transition will affect how systems are constructed as well as the optimal methods for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians must plan for these new refrigerants if they wish to continue enjoying the safest, most energy-efficient cooling possible.

What Refrigerant Is 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 developed to deliver the same powerful cooling while substantially decreasing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is anticipated to be particularly efficient due to its GWP being approximately 78% less than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, updates to system designs and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, modern cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are much more energy efficient, contributing to substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you maintain your system with routine HVAC maintenance.

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

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

Transitioning to the new refrigerants isn't as simple as substituting 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 don't worry—you can keep using your current R-410a system for now. Just know that as time goes on, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes harder to find.

Planning ahead is the most effective way to handle things. If your AC system is currently nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the ideal time to consider upgrading to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Watts Electric & AC can assist you in switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What Type of Cooling Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?

Uncertain which refrigerant your AC system uses? 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 specifications about your cooling system.

But if you have difficulty reading the label or are missing your user manual, don't stress! You can always call one of the skilled technicians at Watts Electric & AC to help you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the information you need by giving us a call at 601-736-7362.