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

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

This shift will decrease the environmental effect of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will utilize an alternative class of refrigerants that more closely match with climate goals. If you're contemplating getting an AC replacement soon, this is the ideal time to investigate 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 standard refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But research uncovered that R-410a still contributes to global warming. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented a plan back in 2021. The industry will progressively discontinue R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are more environmentally friendly.

The HVAC industry has undergone shifts like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to adjust. And in the same way, this shift will impact how systems are constructed as well as the optimal methods for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians need to get ready for these new refrigerants if they wish to continue enjoying the safest, most economical cooling possible.

New HVAC Refrigerants 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 created to deliver the same effective cooling while greatly lowering their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is expected to be particularly efficient due to its GWP being approximately 78% lower than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is actually more flammable than R-410a, updates to system designs and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, contemporary cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly more energy efficient, leading to considerable savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

This transition isn't simply about substituting the refrigerant—it affects 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 switch to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: What Do I Need to Do to Switch to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Transitioning to the new refrigerants will not be as simple as substituting what's used in your current HVAC system. That's because the unique 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 worry—you can still use your current R-410a system for now. Just remember that as time progresses, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will increase as R-410a becomes harder to find.

Anticipating the changes is the most effective way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is currently aging, this is the best time to consider investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the team here at Bigfoot Mechanical can help you in making the transition with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which Refrigerant Is in My AC 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 indicates the type of refrigerant, the model number and various other specifications about your cooling system.

But if you can't read the label or don't have your user manual, remain calm! You can always connect with one of the professional technicians at Bigfoot Mechanical to assist you in figuring it out. Get all the info you need by giving us a call at 509-392-8770.