Significant changes are on the way for the heating and cooling industry! Cooling systems moving from R-410a to newer refrigerants like R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant will be arriving in 2025. These new coolants are designed to be friendlier to the environment and satisfy new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and any new services?
This change will reduce the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will utilize new class of refrigerants that are more compatible with climate goals. If you're thinking about getting an AC replacement soon, this is the opportune time to investigate how these new refrigerants can affect your home's comfort.
Why Exactly Is R-410a Being Phased Out?
For years, R-410a was the standard refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But studies revealed that R-410a still affects global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented a strategy back in 2021. The industry will progressively phase out R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are better for the environment.
The HVAC industry has made shifts like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to adjust. And similarly, this change will impact how systems are designed as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians need to get ready for these new refrigerants if they wish to continue enjoying the most secure, most cost-effective cooling possible.
What Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?
The new batch of refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're developed to offer the same efficient cooling while greatly lowering their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.
R-454B refrigerant is anticipated to be particularly effective due to its GWP being about 78% lower than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is actually more flammable than R-410a, updates to system manufacturing and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, today's cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are much more energy efficient, contributing to big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.
This change isn't simply about swapping out the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the properties of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. Ultimately, every home and business using R-410a will need to upgrade to one of the new systems.
R-410a Replacement: How Can I Prepare to Change to New HVAC Refrigerants?
Changing to the new refrigerants won't be as straightforward 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 make existing R-410a systems incompatible. But don't be concerned—you can still use your current R-410a system for now. Just know that as time progresses, the cost of repairs and tune-ups will go up as R-410a becomes less available.
Preparing in advance is the best way to manage things. If your AC system is currently nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the ideal time to think about investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Superior Comfort Systems can help you in upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.
What Type of Cooling Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?
Unsure which refrigerant your AC system uses? In general, you can easily find this information by checking the label on your outdoor unit. This label displays the type of refrigerant, the model number and many other particulars about your cooling system.
But if you can't read the label or are missing your user manual, remain calm! You can always connect with one of the skilled technicians at Superior Comfort Systems to assist you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the info you need by giving us a call at 828-202-7025.
