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

Significant changes are on the horizon 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 coming in 2025. These new coolants are designed to be friendlier to the environment and comply with revised regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your current HVAC system and future services?

This shift will decrease the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will employ 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 perfect time to investigate how these new refrigerants can influence your home's comfort.

Why Are They Phasing Out R-410a for New HVAC Refrigerant?

For years, R-410a was the standard refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But research showed that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established an initiative back in 2021. The industry will gradually discontinue R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.

The HVAC industry has implemented shifts like this before. When the industry switched from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, property owners like you had to adjust. And similarly, this shift will impact how systems are designed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians must get ready for these new refrigerants if they want to keep experiencing the most secure, most energy-efficient cooling possible.

New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?

The upcoming refrigerants fall under the new "A2L" classification and include the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're created to offer the same effective cooling while significantly reducing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is anticipated to be particularly efficient due to its GWP being approximately 78% less than R-410a. While 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, modern cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly more energy efficient, resulting in big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

This change isn't simply about substituting the refrigerant—it affects 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 upgrade 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 won't be as easy as replacing 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 don't worry—you can keep using your current R-410a system for now. Just remember that as time passes, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes less available.

Preparing in advance is the most effective way to manage things. If your AC system is already getting old, this is the best time to contemplate investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Ameri-Tec can support you with switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which HVAC Refrigerant Is in My Air Conditioner?

Unsure which refrigerant your AC system utilizes? In general, you can easily find this information by examining the label on your outdoor unit. This label shows 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 stress! You can always connect with one of the skilled technicians at Ameri-Tec to assist you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the details you need by contacting us at 717-479-4950.