Big changes are on the horizon 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 coming in 2025. These new coolants are engineered to be more beneficial to the environment and satisfy updated regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your current HVAC system and any new services?
This change will decrease the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will utilize new class of refrigerants that are more compatible with climate goals. If you're considering getting an AC replacement soon, this is the perfect time to explore how these new refrigerants can impact your home's comfort.
Why Exactly Is R-410a Being Phased Out?
For years, R-410a was the preferred refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its efficiency. But analysis revealed that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted a plan back in 2021. The industry will steadily eliminate R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are better for the environment.
The HVAC industry has undergone changes like this before. When the industry moved away from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to adapt. And just like then, this shift will influence how systems are designed as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians should prepare for these new refrigerants if they want to keep experiencing the safest, most economical cooling possible.
New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?
The coming refrigerants fall under the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're designed to deliver the same efficient cooling while substantially decreasing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.
R-454B refrigerant is believed to be especially effective 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, today's cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly more energy efficient, contributing to big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.
This transition isn't just about replacing the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the properties of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. In time, 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 Make the Shift to New HVAC Refrigerants?
Switching to the new refrigerants isn't as simple as substituting what's used in your home's HVAC system. That's because the distinct 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 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 increase 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 consider switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Strine's can support you with upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.
What Type of Cooling Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?
Uncertain which refrigerant your AC system utilizes? In general, you can easily find 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 are unable to decipher the label or can't find your user manual, don't worry! You can always call one of the expert technicians at Strine's to assist you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the information you need by contacting us at 717-383-4479.