Big changes are on the way for the heating and cooling industry! Cooling systems transitioning 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 new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and upcoming services?
This change will decrease the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will employ new class of refrigerants that more closely match with climate goals. If you're considering getting an AC replacement soon, this is the opportune time to explore how these updates can influence 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 of its effectiveness. But research uncovered that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted a strategy back in 2021. The industry will steadily discontinue R-410a to replace it with refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.
The HVAC industry has undergone transitions like this before. When the industry moved away from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, homeowners like you had to adjust. And similarly, this transition will influence how systems are engineered as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians need to plan for these new refrigerants if they want to keep experiencing the safest, most cost-effective cooling possible.
Which New Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?
The upcoming refrigerants are categorized under the new "A2L" classification and encompass the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're developed to offer the same efficient 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 around 78% lower than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, updates to system manufacturing and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, modern cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly more energy efficient, resulting in considerable savings on energy bills over time, especially if you stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.
This transition isn't just 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 residence 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 Transition to New HVAC Refrigerants?
Transitioning to the new refrigerants isn't as simple as substituting what's used in your home's HVAC system. That's because the unique properties of R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant make existing R-410a systems incompatible. But don't be concerned—you can continue to use your current R-410a system for now. Just keep in mind that as time passes, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes harder to find.
Planning ahead is the most effective way to manage things. If your AC system is currently 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 staff here at Gilray Heating and Cooling can support you with switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.
What Type of Cooling Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?
Not sure which refrigerant your AC system utilizes? In general, you can easily learn this information by checking the label on your outdoor unit. This label indicates the type of refrigerant, the model number and numerous 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 professional technicians at Gilray Heating and Cooling to help you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the details you need by contacting us at 715-301-0727.