Major changes are on the way for the heating and cooling business! 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 designed to be better for the environment and meet updated regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your current HVAC system and upcoming 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 better align 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 impact your home's comfort.

Why Exactly Is R-410a Being Phased Out?

For years, R-410a was the preferred refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But studies showed that R-410a still contributes to global warming. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established a plan back in 2021. The industry will gradually discontinue R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.

The HVAC industry has made changes like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, property owners like you had to adjust. And just like then, this transition will impact how systems are constructed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians should prepare for these new refrigerants if they want to keep experiencing the most reliable, most economical cooling possible.

Which New Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The new batch of refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and encompass the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're developed to provide the same effective cooling while significantly reducing 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% lower than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, updates to system configurations and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, contemporary cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are considerably more energy efficient, resulting in substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.

This transition isn't just about changing the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the characteristics of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. In time, every residence and business using R-410a will need to transition 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 straightforward as swapping out the new coolants with what's used in your home's HVAC system. That's because the distinct properties of R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant make existing R-410a systems incompatible.  But don't worry—you can still use your current R-410a system for now. Just keep in mind that as time passes, the cost of repairs and tune-ups will go up as R-410a becomes harder to find.

Preparing in advance is the optimal way to manage things. If your AC system is already aging, this is the ideal time to think about investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at True Temp Heating & Air Conditioning 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 uses? In general, you can easily find this information by inspecting the label on your outdoor unit. This label indicates the type of refrigerant, the model number and many other details about your cooling system.

But if you are unable to decipher the label or are missing your user manual, remain calm! You can always call one of the skilled technicians at True Temp Heating & Air Conditioning to help you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the details you need by giving us a call at 706-695-7492.