Major changes are on the way 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 engineered to be more beneficial to the environment and satisfy revised regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and future services?

This shift will reduce the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will use new 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 investigate how these updates can affect your home's comfort.

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

For years, R-410a was the go-to refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But studies uncovered 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 gradually eliminate R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are more environmentally friendly.

The HVAC industry has undergone shifts 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 in the same way, this shift will impact how systems are designed as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians must prepare for these new refrigerants if they wish to keep experiencing the most secure, most economical cooling possible.

Which New Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The coming refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and include the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're engineered to provide the same powerful cooling while substantially decreasing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is believed to be especially efficient due to its GWP being around 78% lower than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is actually more flammable than R-410a, updates to system designs and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, modern cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly more energy efficient, resulting in considerable savings on energy bills over time, especially if you stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.

This switch isn't simply about replacing the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the components of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. Ultimately, every home and business using R-410a will be required to switch to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: What Should I Consider in Order to Transition to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Changing to the new refrigerants isn't 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 keep using your current R-410a system for now. Just know that as time passes, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes less available.

Preparing in advance is the best way to handle things. If your AC system is already nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the perfect time to think about switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Alpine Summit Heating & Cooling can support you with making the transition with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which HVAC Refrigerant Is in My Air Conditioner?

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

But if you are unable to decipher the label or are missing your user manual, don't worry! You can always connect with one of the expert technicians at Alpine Summit Heating & Cooling to help you in figuring it out. Get all the information you need by contacting us at 208-561-1226.