Significant changes are on the horizon 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 meet updated regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and future services?

This transition will reduce the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will utilize an alternative class of refrigerants that better align with climate goals. If you're contemplating getting an AC replacement soon, this is the opportune time to investigate how these new refrigerants can impact your home's comfort.

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

For a long time, R-410a was the go-to refrigerant for residential air conditioners because it worked so well. But research uncovered that R-410a still contributes to global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented a plan back in 2021. The industry will gradually discontinue 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 adjust. And similarly, this shift will impact how systems are constructed as well as the optimal methods for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians must plan for these new refrigerants if they wish to continue enjoying the most reliable, most cost-effective cooling possible.

New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?

The coming refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and encompass the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're designed to deliver the same efficient 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 about 78% less than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is technically more flammable than R-410a, enhancements to system manufacturing and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, contemporary 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 only about substituting the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the characteristics of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. Ultimately, every residence and business using R-410a will have to switch 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 will not be as straightforward as replacing what's used in your current 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 still use your current R-410a system for now. Just be aware that as time goes on, the price of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes scarcer.

Preparing in advance is the best way to manage things. If your AC system is already aging, this is the ideal time to think about upgrading to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Covington Air Systems can support you with switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What HVAC Refrigerant Does My Air Conditioner Use?

Not sure which refrigerant your AC system utilizes? In general, you can easily locate this information by examining the label on your outdoor unit. This label shows the type of refrigerant, the model number and numerous other details about your cooling system.

But if you can't read the label or are missing your user manual, don't worry! You can always connect with one of the skilled technicians at Covington Air Systems to assist you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the information you need by reaching out at (770) 462-5319.