Major changes are on the horizon 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 more beneficial to the environment and satisfy revised regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and upcoming services?

This change will reduce the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. Starting with 2025, new AC systems will employ a a different class of refrigerants that more closely match with climate goals. If you're thinking about getting an AC replacement soon, this is the perfect time to learn more about how these changes can affect 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 of its effectiveness. But studies revealed that R-410a still affects global warming. Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted a plan back in 2021. The industry will progressively discontinue R-410a to replace it with refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.

The HVAC industry has made shifts like this before. When the industry switched from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, homeowners like you had to adapt. And similarly, this change will influence how systems are constructed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians need to prepare for these new refrigerants if they want 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 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 expected to be especially effective due to its GWP being about 78% less than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is technically more flammable than R-410a, enhancements to system designs and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, contemporary cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are much more energy efficient, leading to substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.

This switch isn't simply about substituting the refrigerant—it impacts 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 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 simple as substituting 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 rest assured—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 increase as R-410a becomes scarcer.

Anticipating the changes is the optimal way to stay on top of 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 team here at J & J Air Conditioning can assist you in upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What HVAC Refrigerant Does My Air Conditioner Use?

Unsure which refrigerant your AC system utilizes? In general, you can easily locate this information by checking the label on your outdoor unit. This label indicates the type of refrigerant, the model number and many other details about your cooling system.

But if you have difficulty reading the label or can't find your user manual, remain calm! You can always call one of the professional technicians at J & J Air Conditioning to help you in figuring it out. Get all the information you need by reaching out at 254-355-3833.