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

Major changes are on the way for the heating and cooling industry! 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 engineered to be friendlier to the environment and satisfy revised regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and upcoming services?

This shift will minimize the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will utilize an alternative class of refrigerants that better align with climate goals. If you're considering getting an AC replacement soon, this is the opportune time to investigate how these new refrigerants can affect your home's comfort.

Why Exactly Is R-410a Being Phased Out?

For years, R-410a was the go-to refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But research revealed that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented an initiative back in 2021. The industry will gradually eliminate R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are better for the environment.

The HVAC industry has made shifts like this before. When the industry moved away from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, homeowners like you had to adapt. And in the same way, this change will affect how systems are designed as well as the optimal methods for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians should plan for these new refrigerants if they want to keep experiencing the safest, most energy-efficient cooling possible.

New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?

The upcoming refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're created to deliver the same efficient 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 about 78% lower than R-410a. Although 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, today's cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are considerably more energy efficient, resulting in substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.

This transition isn't only about replacing the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the properties of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. Eventually, every residence 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?

Changing to the new refrigerants will not be as easy as replacing what's used in your home's HVAC system. That's because the different properties of R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant make existing R-410a systems incompatible.  But rest assured—you can keep using 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 harder to find.

Preparing in advance is the most effective way to manage things. If your AC system is already nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the ideal time to consider switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the team here at Marios Air Conditioning can support you with making the transition with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which HVAC Refrigerant Is in My Air Conditioner?

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 indicates the type of refrigerant, the model number and various other specifications about your cooling system.

But if you have difficulty reading the label or are missing your user manual, don't worry! You can always call one of the skilled technicians at Marios Air Conditioning to help you in figuring it out. Get all the details you need by reaching out at 760-314-4766.