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 arriving in 2025. These new coolants are developed to be better for the environment and satisfy updated regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and upcoming services?

This transition will reduce the environmental effect of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will use a a different class of refrigerants that more closely match with climate goals. If you're thinking about getting an AC replacement soon, this is the perfect time to learn more about how these updates can influence 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 efficiency. But analysis revealed that R-410a still contributes to global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted a strategy back in 2021. The industry will gradually eliminate R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are better for the environment.

The HVAC industry has undergone changes like this before. When the industry moved away from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, homeowners like you had to follow suit. And just like then, this transition will affect how systems are designed 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 keep experiencing the safest, most economical cooling possible.

What Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The coming refrigerants fall 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 believed to be especially useful due to its GWP being approximately 78% less than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, enhancements to system configurations and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, modern cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are much more energy efficient, contributing to substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.

This change isn't only about changing 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 upgrade to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: What Should I Consider in Order to Switch 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 unique properties of R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant make existing R-410a systems incompatible.  But don't worry—you can continue to use your current R-410a system for now. Just remember that as time passes, the price of repairs and tune-ups will go up as R-410a becomes scarcer.

Planning ahead is the optimal way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is currently getting old, this is the ideal time to contemplate upgrading to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Childress Heating & AC can assist you in switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What HVAC Refrigerant Does My Air Conditioner Use?

Unsure which refrigerant your AC system employs? In general, you can easily learn this information by examining the label on your outdoor unit. This label displays the type of refrigerant, the model number and various other details about your cooling system.

But if you have difficulty reading the label or can't find your user manual, don't stress! You can always call one of the professional technicians at Childress Heating & AC to help you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the info you need by contacting us at 540-675-4306.