Major 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 implemented in 2025. These new coolants are developed to be friendlier to the environment and satisfy updated regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your current HVAC system and future services?
This shift will decrease the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will utilize a a different class of refrigerants that better align with climate goals. If you're thinking about getting an AC replacement soon, this is the perfect time to investigate how these changes 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 efficiency. But research revealed that R-410a still contributes to global warming. Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established an initiative back in 2021. The industry will steadily eliminate R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are more environmentally friendly.
The HVAC industry has implemented changes like this before. When the industry switched from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, homeowners like you had to adjust. And just like then, this transition will affect how systems are constructed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians should plan for these new refrigerants if they wish to keep experiencing the most secure, most energy-efficient 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 created to deliver the same effective cooling while substantially decreasing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.
R-454B refrigerant is anticipated to be especially effective due to its GWP being approximately 78% less than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, enhancements to system designs and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, contemporary cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly more energy efficient, contributing to substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you maintain your system with routine HVAC maintenance.
This change isn't just about replacing the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the components of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. Eventually, every residence and business using R-410a will be required to transition to one of the new systems.
R-410a Replacement: What Do I Need to Do to Change to New HVAC Refrigerants?
Transitioning to the new refrigerants won't be as easy 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 worry—you can keep using your current R-410a system for now. Just know that as time goes on, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will go up as R-410a becomes scarcer.
Planning ahead is the most effective way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is already aging, this is the ideal time to contemplate upgrading to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at Prudhom Mechanical can support you with upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.
Which HVAC Refrigerant Is in My Air Conditioner?
Unsure which refrigerant your AC system uses? 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 various other specifications 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 connect with one of the expert technicians at Prudhom Mechanical to help you in determining this information. Get all the info you need by reaching out at 405-888-8606.