Major changes are on the way for the heating and cooling business! Cooling systems shifting 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 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. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will utilize a a different class of refrigerants that better align with climate goals. If you're considering getting an AC replacement soon, this is the ideal time to investigate how these changes can influence your home's comfort.

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

For a long time, R-410a was the preferred refrigerant for residential air conditioners because it worked so well. But research revealed that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established a strategy back in 2021. The industry will steadily phase out R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are more environmentally friendly.

The HVAC industry has implemented changes like this before. When the industry moved away from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to follow suit. And in the same way, this shift will influence how systems are engineered 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 economical cooling possible.

New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?

The new batch of refrigerants fall under the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're designed to provide the same effective cooling while greatly lowering their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is expected to be particularly effective due to its GWP being about 78% less than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is technically 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 significantly 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 changing the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the components of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. Ultimately, every home and business using R-410a will be required to upgrade to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: How Can I Prepare to Make the Shift to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Switching to the new refrigerants won't be as simple 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 the new refrigerants in a system designed to use R-410a.  But rest assured—you can continue to use your current R-410a system for now. Just keep in mind that as time goes on, the cost of repairs and tune-ups will increase as R-410a becomes less available.

Anticipating the changes is the optimal way to handle things. If your AC system is currently getting old, this is the perfect time to contemplate investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at James Heating & A/C, Inc can help you in making the transition with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What HVAC Refrigerant Does My Air Conditioner Use?

Uncertain which refrigerant your AC system uses? In general, you can easily learn this information by checking the label on your outdoor unit. This label shows the type of refrigerant, the model number and various other particulars about your cooling system.

But if you can't read the label or can't find your user manual, don't stress! You can always call one of the professional technicians at James Heating & A/C, Inc to help you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the details you need by giving us a call at 336-853-6070.