Major changes are coming 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 implemented in 2025. These new coolants are developed to be better for the environment and meet revised regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and any new services?

This transition will minimize the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will use a a different class of refrigerants that are more compatible with climate goals. If you're considering getting an AC replacement soon, this is the ideal time to investigate how these updates can affect your home's comfort.

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

For years, R-410a was the go-to refrigerant for residential air conditioners because it worked so well. But analysis showed that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted an initiative back in 2021. The industry will progressively discontinue R-410a to replace it with refrigerants that are better for the environment.

The HVAC industry has made transitions like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, property owners like you had to follow suit. And just like then, this change will influence how systems are engineered as well as the optimal methods for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians should plan for these new refrigerants if they wish to keep experiencing the most secure, most cost-effective cooling possible.

New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?

The upcoming refrigerants fall under the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're engineered to provide the same powerful cooling while greatly lowering their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is anticipated to be especially efficient due to its GWP being about 78% lower than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, enhancements to system configurations and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, contemporary cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly more energy efficient, leading to substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

This transition isn't just about swapping out 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 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 isn't as straightforward as substituting what's used in your current HVAC system. That's because the different properties of R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant mean you can't use the new refrigerants in a system designed to use R-410a.  But rest assured—you can still use your current R-410a system for now. Just know that as time goes on, the cost of repairs and tune-ups will go up as R-410a becomes harder to find.

Planning ahead is the optimal way to manage things. If your AC system is currently nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the best time to think about investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at NW Power & Air can help 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 utilizes? In general, you can easily locate 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 can't read the label or don't have your user manual, don't worry! You can always connect with one of the professional technicians at NW Power & Air to assist you in determining this information. Get all the info you need by reaching out at 360-262-7663.