Major changes are on the horizon for the heating and cooling business! 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 developed to be better for the environment and satisfy new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your current HVAC system and upcoming services?

This transition will minimize the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will use 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 ideal time to learn more about how these new refrigerants can affect your home's comfort.

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

For a long time, R-410a was the go-to refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But analysis uncovered that R-410a still affects global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established a plan back in 2021. The industry will progressively phase out R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are more environmentally friendly.

The HVAC industry has implemented changes like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, property owners like you had to adjust. And in the same way, this transition will affect how systems are engineered as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners 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 new batch of refrigerants are categorized under the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're engineered to offer the same powerful cooling while substantially decreasing 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, updates to system configurations and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, modern cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly more energy efficient, contributing to substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

This change isn't only about replacing the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the components of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. Ultimately, every residence and business using R-410a will be required 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 isn't as straightforward 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 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 progresses, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will go up as R-410a becomes scarcer.

Planning ahead is the most effective way to manage things. If your AC system is already getting old, this is the perfect time to consider switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Wallpe Heating & Cooling can assist you in upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which Refrigerant Is in My AC System?

Uncertain which refrigerant your AC system uses? 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 many other particulars about your cooling system.

But if you have difficulty reading the label or don't have your user manual, don't worry! You can always connect with one of the skilled technicians at Wallpe Heating & Cooling to assist you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the details you need by giving us a call at 812-663-7252.