Big changes are on the horizon for the heating and cooling business! Cooling systems transitioning from R-410a to newer refrigerants like R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant will be implemented in 2025. These new coolants are engineered to be friendlier to the environment and comply with updated regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and any new services?
This change will decrease the environmental effect of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will utilize an alternative class of refrigerants that are more compatible with climate goals. If you're thinking about getting an AC replacement soon, this is the ideal time to learn more about how these new refrigerants can affect 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 of its efficiency. But research revealed that R-410a still contributes to global warming. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted an initiative back in 2021. The industry will gradually phase out R-410a to replace it with refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.
The HVAC industry has made transitions like this before. When the industry moved away from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, homeowners like you had to follow suit. And in the same way, this shift will impact how systems are engineered as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians need to get ready for these new refrigerants if they want to keep experiencing the most reliable, most cost-effective cooling possible.
What Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?
The new batch of refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're engineered to offer the same effective cooling while greatly lowering their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.
R-454B refrigerant is expected to be particularly useful due to its GWP being around 78% less than R-410a. Although 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. In addition, modern cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly more energy efficient, resulting in substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.
This switch isn't simply about swapping out the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the components of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. Eventually, every household and business using R-410a will have to upgrade 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 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 worry—you can keep using your current R-410a system for now. Just keep in mind that as time goes on, the price of repairs and tune-ups will increase as R-410a becomes less available.
Planning ahead is the most effective way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is already nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the perfect time to think about investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning can assist you in switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.
Which Refrigerant Is in My AC System?
Not sure which refrigerant your AC system utilizes? In general, you can easily locate this information by inspecting 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 are missing your user manual, don't worry! You can always connect with one of the skilled technicians at Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning to assist you in determining this information. Get all the details you need by giving us a call at 432-237-0168.
