Significant changes are on the horizon for the heating and cooling business! Cooling systems transitioning from R-410a to newer refrigerants like R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant will be implemented in 2025. These new coolants are developed to be better for the environment and comply with revised regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and future services?

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

Why Exactly Is R-410a Being Phased Out?

For years, R-410a was the standard refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its efficiency. But research uncovered that R-410a still affects global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted an initiative back in 2021. The industry will progressively eliminate R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are better for the environment.

The HVAC industry has implemented shifts like this before. When the industry switched from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to follow suit. And in the same way, this transition will impact how systems are engineered as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians need to prepare for these new refrigerants if they want to continue enjoying the most reliable, most energy-efficient cooling possible.

What Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

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

R-454B refrigerant is expected to be particularly effective due to its GWP being around 78% less than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, enhancements to system designs and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, modern cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are much more energy efficient, resulting in big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you maintain your system with routine HVAC maintenance.

This switch isn't just about substituting the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the components of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. Ultimately, every household and business using R-410a will be required to upgrade to one of the new systems.

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

Transitioning to the new refrigerants isn't as straightforward as swapping out the new coolants with 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 be concerned—you can still use your current R-410a system for now. Just be aware that as time progresses, the cost of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes harder to find.

Anticipating the changes is the best way to handle things. If your AC system is currently nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the best time to think about switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Total Assurance AC & Heating can help you in switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which Refrigerant Is in My AC System?

Not sure which refrigerant your AC system uses? In general, you can easily learn 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 are unable to decipher the label or don't have your user manual, remain calm! You can always connect with one of the expert technicians at Total Assurance AC & Heating to help you in determining this information. Get all the information you need by contacting us at 361-446-6925.