New HVAC Refrigerant in 2025: Significant Changes Are on the Horizon for HVAC Coolants.

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 designed to be better for the environment and meet updated regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and upcoming services?

This transition will minimize the environmental effect of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will employ a a different class of refrigerants that are more compatible 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 a long time, R-410a was the standard refrigerant for residential air conditioners because it worked so well. But studies uncovered that R-410a still affects global warming. Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established an initiative back in 2021. The industry will gradually discontinue R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are better for the environment.

The HVAC industry has implemented transitions like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, homeowners like you had to adjust. And similarly, this shift will impact how systems are constructed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians must get ready for these new refrigerants if they wish to keep experiencing the most reliable, most economical cooling possible.

What Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

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

R-454B refrigerant is believed to be particularly useful due to its GWP being around 78% less than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, improvements to system manufacturing and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, contemporary cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly more energy efficient, contributing to substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.

This switch isn't only about swapping out the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the properties of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. Ultimately, every household and business using R-410a will need to transition to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: What Should I Consider in Order to Make the Shift to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Changing to the new refrigerants isn't as easy as replacing what's used in your current 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 continue to use your current R-410a system for now. Just be aware that as time passes, the price of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes scarcer.

Planning ahead is the best way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is currently nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the best time to consider investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at Farnell Mechanical, Inc. can assist you in switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which Refrigerant Is in My AC System?

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 particulars about your cooling system.

But if you have difficulty reading the label or are missing your user manual, remain calm! You can always call one of the skilled technicians at Farnell Mechanical, Inc. to assist you in determining this information. Get all the info you need by reaching out at 334-524-2458.