New HVAC Refrigerant in 2025: Major Changes Are on the Horizon for HVAC Coolants.

Big changes are coming 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 arriving in 2025. These new coolants are developed to be friendlier to the environment and meet new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your current HVAC system and any new services?

This transition will reduce the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will utilize an alternative class of refrigerants that better align with climate goals. If you're considering getting an AC replacement soon, this is the perfect time to investigate how these changes can affect your home's comfort.

Why Is R-410a Refrigerant Being Phased Out by New Regulations?

For years, R-410a was the go-to refrigerant for residential air conditioners because it worked so well. But analysis revealed that R-410a still contributes to global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented an initiative back in 2021. The industry will gradually phase out R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are better for the environment.

The HVAC industry has undergone transitions like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to adjust. And just like then, this change will affect how systems are designed as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians should plan for these new refrigerants if they wish to continue enjoying the most secure, most cost-effective cooling possible.

Which New Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The upcoming refrigerants are categorized under the new "A2L" classification and encompass the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're created to deliver the same efficient cooling while substantially decreasing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is anticipated to be particularly useful due to its GWP being approximately 78% less than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is actually more flammable than R-410a, improvements to system manufacturing 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 considerable savings on energy bills over time, especially if you stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.

This switch isn't only about swapping out the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the characteristics of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. Eventually, every home and business using R-410a will need to switch to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: How Can I Prepare to Switch to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Switching to the new refrigerants isn't as simple as substituting what's used in your home's HVAC system. That's because the distinct 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 rest assured—you can keep using your current R-410a system for now. Just remember that as time goes on, the cost of repairs and tune-ups will go up as R-410a becomes scarcer.

Planning ahead is the most effective way to manage things. If your AC system is already nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the best time to consider switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the team here at Pliescott HVAC Services LLC can assist you in making the transition with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What Type of Cooling Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?

Unsure which refrigerant your AC system uses? 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 numerous other particulars about your cooling system.

But if you have difficulty reading the label or are missing your user manual, don't worry! You can always connect with one of the expert technicians at Pliescott HVAC Services LLC to help you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the details you need by contacting us at 410-228-4822.