New HVAC Refrigerant in 2025: Major Changes Will Go into Effect for HVAC Coolants.

Big changes are coming for the heating and cooling business! 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 designed to be better for the environment and meet new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and upcoming services?

This change will decrease the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will employ new class of refrigerants that more closely match with climate goals. If you're thinking about getting an AC replacement soon, this is the opportune time to explore how these updates can impact your home's comfort.

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

For years, R-410a was the preferred refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But research showed that R-410a still contributes to global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted an initiative back in 2021. The industry will gradually phase out R-410a to make room for 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 change will impact how systems are constructed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians must get ready for these new refrigerants if they want to continue enjoying the safest, most energy-efficient cooling possible.

What 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 designed to provide the same effective cooling while substantially decreasing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is expected to be particularly useful due to its GWP being about 78% lower than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, updates to system designs and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, modern cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are much more energy efficient, resulting in considerable savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

This switch isn't just about changing the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the characteristics of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. Ultimately, every home and business using R-410a will have to transition to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: How Can I Prepare to Make the Shift to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Changing to the new refrigerants isn't as simple as replacing 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 worry—you can still use your current R-410a system for now. Just keep in mind that as time goes on, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes less available.

Anticipating the changes is the most effective way to manage things. If your AC system is already nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the best time to contemplate investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at Forster Heating 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 employs? In general, you can easily locate this information by inspecting the label on your outdoor unit. This label indicates the type of refrigerant, the model number and many other specifications about your cooling system.

But if you can't read the label or are missing your user manual, remain calm! You can always call one of the professional technicians at Forster Heating to help you in determining this information. Get all the details you need by reaching out at 530-885-8081.