Significant changes are on the horizon for the heating and cooling business! 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 engineered to be better for the environment and satisfy revised regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and upcoming services?

This change will decrease the environmental effect of our air conditioning systems. Starting with 2025, new AC systems will employ a a different 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 investigate how these new refrigerants can affect your home's comfort.

Why Are They Phasing Out R-410a for New HVAC Refrigerant?

For a long time, R-410a was the preferred refrigerant for residential air conditioners because it worked so well. But research uncovered that R-410a still affects global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted an initiative back in 2021. The industry will steadily eliminate R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are better for the environment.

The HVAC industry has implemented changes like this before. When the industry moved away from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, property owners like you had to follow suit. And in the same way, this change will affect how systems are designed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians should get ready for these new refrigerants if they wish to keep experiencing the most reliable, most economical cooling possible.

Which New Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The upcoming refrigerants are categorized under the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're developed to provide the same powerful 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 around 78% lower than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is actually more flammable than R-410a, enhancements 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 much more energy efficient, leading to big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.

This transition isn't only about swapping out the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the components of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. In time, every household and business using R-410a will have to upgrade to one of the new systems.

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

Switching to the new refrigerants isn't as easy as replacing what's used in your home's HVAC system. That's because the different properties of R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant make existing R-410a systems incompatible.  But don't worry—you can keep using your current R-410a system for now. Just be aware that as time progresses, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will increase as R-410a becomes scarcer.

Anticipating the changes is the most effective way to manage things. If your AC system is already getting old, this is the ideal time to consider switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at B & B Heating & Cooling can help you in switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What Type of Cooling Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?

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

But if you are unable to decipher the label or are missing your user manual, don't worry! You can always call one of the expert technicians at B & B Heating & Cooling to help you in figuring it out. Get all the info you need by reaching out at 314-325-7552.