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

Big 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 engineered to be more beneficial to the environment and comply with new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and any new services?

This shift will minimize the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. Starting with 2025, new AC systems will employ new class of refrigerants that are more compatible with climate goals. If you're contemplating getting an AC replacement soon, this is the opportune 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 standard refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its efficiency. But research showed that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted a plan back in 2021. The industry will steadily eliminate R-410a to replace it with refrigerants that are better for the environment.

The HVAC industry has implemented changes like this before. When the industry switched from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to adjust. And in the same way, this change will influence how systems are designed as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians must prepare for these new refrigerants if they wish to keep experiencing the safest, most energy-efficient cooling possible.

Which New Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The upcoming refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and include the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're created to offer the same effective cooling while significantly reducing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

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

This transition isn't just about changing the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the characteristics 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: How Can I Prepare to Make the Shift to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Transitioning to the new refrigerants isn't as easy as substituting what's used in your current HVAC system. That's because the unique 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 continue to use your current R-410a system for now. Just remember that as time progresses, the cost of repairs and tune-ups will go up as R-410a becomes harder to find.

Preparing in advance is the best way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is currently nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the best time to consider investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at Pepper AC & Heat can support you with making the transition with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which Refrigerant Is in My AC System?

Unsure which refrigerant your AC system utilizes? In general, you can easily find this information by checking 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 are unable to decipher the label or can't find your user manual, don't stress! You can always connect with one of the professional technicians at Pepper AC & Heat to help you in figuring it out. Get all the details you need by reaching out at 940-202-1184.