Significant changes are coming 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 implemented 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 current HVAC system and any new services?
This shift will minimize the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. Starting with 2025, new AC systems will employ 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 opportune time to explore 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 preferred refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its efficiency. But analysis uncovered that R-410a still contributes to global warming. Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted a plan back in 2021. The industry will progressively eliminate R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are more eco-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 adapt. And in the same way, this change will affect how systems are constructed as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians need to prepare for these new refrigerants if they wish to continue enjoying the safest, most economical cooling possible.
New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?
The coming refrigerants fall under the new "A2L" classification and encompass the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're designed to provide the same effective cooling while substantially decreasing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.
R-454B refrigerant is expected to be particularly useful due to its GWP being approximately 78% less than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is technically more flammable than R-410a, improvements to system configurations and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, today's cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are much more energy efficient, resulting in big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.
This switch isn't simply about swapping out the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the characteristics of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. In time, every home and business using R-410a will be required to switch to one of the new systems.
R-410a Replacement: How Can I Prepare to Make the Shift to New HVAC Refrigerants?
Transitioning to the new refrigerants isn't as simple as substituting what's used in your home's HVAC system. That's because the different 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 still use your current R-410a system for now. Just be aware that as time goes on, the cost of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes less available.
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 perfect time to contemplate upgrading to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the team here at Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating can assist you in upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.
Which HVAC Refrigerant Is in My Air Conditioner?
Unsure which refrigerant your AC system employs? In general, you can easily find this information by checking the label on your outdoor unit. This label indicates the type of refrigerant, the model number and various other particulars 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 Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating to help you in figuring it out. Get all the details you need by giving us a call at (818) 727-9993.
