Major changes are coming for the heating and cooling industry! Cooling systems moving from R-410a to newer refrigerants like R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant will be implemented in 2025. These new coolants are designed to be friendlier to the environment and satisfy revised regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and any new services?

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

Why Is R-410a Refrigerant Being Phased Out by New Regulations?

For years, R-410a was the standard refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its efficiency. But research showed that R-410a still contributes to global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established an initiative back in 2021. The industry will gradually eliminate R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.

The HVAC industry has made shifts like this before. When the industry moved away from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, property owners like you had to follow suit. And in the same way, this shift will influence how systems are engineered as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians must prepare for these new refrigerants if they wish to keep experiencing the most secure, most energy-efficient cooling possible.

New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?

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

R-454B refrigerant is believed to be especially efficient due to its GWP being around 78% lower than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is actually 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 much more energy efficient, contributing to substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you maintain your system with routine HVAC maintenance.

This change isn't just about changing the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the properties of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. In time, every household and business using R-410a will have to transition to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: What Do I Need to Do to Switch to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Switching to the new refrigerants won't be as straightforward 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 don't be concerned—you can keep using your current R-410a system for now. Just keep in mind that as time progresses, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes less available.

Planning ahead is the best way to handle things. If your AC system is already getting old, this is the perfect time to think about switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the team here at West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. can assist 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 employs? In general, you can easily find this information by examining the label on your outdoor unit. This label shows the type of refrigerant, the model number and numerous other details about your cooling system.

But if you are unable to decipher the label or are missing your user manual, don't stress! You can always call one of the professional technicians at West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. to help you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the info you need by giving us a call at 614-879-9091.