New HVAC Refrigerant in 2025: Significant Changes Will Go into Effect for HVAC Coolants.

Big 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 developed to be more beneficial to the environment and meet new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your current HVAC system and upcoming services?

This transition will decrease the environmental effect of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will employ 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 explore how these updates 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 it worked so well. But analysis uncovered that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted a plan back in 2021. The industry will gradually eliminate R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.

The HVAC industry has implemented shifts like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, homeowners like you had to adjust. And just like then, this shift will influence how systems are engineered as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians should prepare for these new refrigerants if they wish to continue enjoying the most reliable, most energy-efficient cooling possible.

Which New Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The new batch of 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 effective cooling while greatly lowering their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is anticipated to be particularly efficient due to its GWP being about 78% lower than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, improvements 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, resulting in substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you maintain your system with routine HVAC maintenance.

This transition isn't simply about replacing the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the properties of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. Eventually, every household and business using R-410a will need to upgrade to one of the new systems.

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

Transitioning to the new refrigerants won't be as simple as replacing what's used in your current HVAC system. That's because the unique properties of R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant mean you can't use the new refrigerants in a system designed to use R-410a.  But don't be concerned—you can keep using your current R-410a system for now. Just be aware that as time passes, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will go up as R-410a becomes harder to find.

Anticipating the changes is the most effective way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is already nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the best time to consider upgrading to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at Struven Heating & Cooling can help you in upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which HVAC Refrigerant Is in My Air Conditioner?

Uncertain which refrigerant your AC system employs? In general, you can easily locate this information by checking 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 worry! You can always connect with one of the professional technicians at Struven Heating & Cooling to help you in determining this information. Get all the details you need by contacting us at 219-292-0956.