Major changes are on the horizon 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 coming in 2025. These new coolants are engineered to be better for the environment and comply with revised regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and any new services?
This transition will decrease the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. Starting with 2025, new AC systems will employ an alternative class of refrigerants that are more compatible with climate goals. If you're considering getting an AC replacement soon, this is the perfect time to learn more about how these new refrigerants can impact 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 revealed that R-410a still affects global warming. Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented an initiative back in 2021. The industry will gradually discontinue R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.
The HVAC industry has made transitions like this before. When the industry switched from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, homeowners like you had to adapt. And just like then, this change will influence how systems are constructed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians must plan for these new refrigerants if they want to continue enjoying the most secure, most cost-effective cooling possible.
What Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?
The upcoming refrigerants fall under the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're developed to provide the same efficient cooling while substantially decreasing 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% less than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, updates to system designs and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, today's cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly more energy efficient, contributing to substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.
This switch isn't only about substituting 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 home and business using R-410a will be required 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?
Switching to the new refrigerants isn't as straightforward as replacing 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 be concerned—you can keep using your current R-410a system for now. Just be aware that as time passes, the price of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes harder to find.
Planning ahead is the optimal way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is already getting old, this is the best time to think about switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Phelps Heating & Cooling, Inc. can support you with switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.
What HVAC Refrigerant Does My Air Conditioner Use?
Uncertain which refrigerant your AC system utilizes? In general, you can easily learn this information by checking the label on your outdoor unit. This label displays the type of refrigerant, the model number and various other specifications about your cooling system.
But if you can't read the label or can't find your user manual, remain calm! You can always connect with one of the expert technicians at Phelps Heating & Cooling, Inc. to help you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the info you need by contacting us at 270-358-3167.
