Major changes are coming for the heating and cooling industry! Cooling systems shifting 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 better for the environment and meet revised regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and future services?

This transition will decrease the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. 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 ideal time to learn more about how these changes can affect your home's comfort.

Why Exactly Is R-410a Being Phased Out?

For a long time, R-410a was the standard refrigerant for residential air conditioners because it worked so well. But analysis showed that R-410a still contributes to global warming. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented a strategy back in 2021. The industry will progressively eliminate R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are better for the environment.

The HVAC industry has undergone shifts like this before. When the industry moved away from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to follow suit. And similarly, this change will influence how systems are constructed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians should get ready for these new refrigerants if they want to keep experiencing the safest, most cost-effective cooling possible.

What Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The new batch of refrigerants fall under the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're created to provide the same powerful 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 around 78% less than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is actually more flammable than R-410a, updates to system configurations and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, today's cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly more energy efficient, leading to big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

This change isn't just about swapping out the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the properties of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. Eventually, every household and business using R-410a will need to switch to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: What Do I Need to Do to Make the Shift to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Changing to the new refrigerants won't be as easy as substituting what's used in your current HVAC system. That's because the different properties of R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant mean you can't use them in a system that uses R-410a.  But rest assured—you can continue to use your current R-410a system for now. Just be aware that as time goes on, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will increase as R-410a becomes harder to find.

Planning ahead is the best way to handle things. If your AC system is already aging, this is the ideal time to contemplate upgrading to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at Just Komfort Heating & Cooling can help you in switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which HVAC Refrigerant Is in My Air Conditioner?

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

But if you have difficulty reading the label or don't have your user manual, don't stress! You can always connect with one of the skilled technicians at Just Komfort Heating & Cooling to assist you in figuring it out. Get all the details you need by reaching out at 458-206-0216.