Major changes are on the way 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 better for the environment and satisfy new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and upcoming services?

This change will reduce the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will use new 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 investigate how these changes can influence your home's comfort.

Why Exactly Is R-410a Being Phased Out?

For a long time, R-410a was the standard refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But studies revealed that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented a strategy back in 2021. The industry will gradually discontinue R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.

The HVAC industry has implemented changes like this before. When the industry switched from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, property owners like you had to adapt. And just like then, this transition will influence how systems are engineered as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians need to plan for these new refrigerants if they wish to keep experiencing the most reliable, most cost-effective cooling possible.

Which New Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The coming refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and encompass the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're created to offer the same effective cooling while significantly reducing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is anticipated to be particularly efficient due to its GWP being approximately 78% less than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is actually more flammable than R-410a, updates to system configurations and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, modern cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are considerably more energy efficient, contributing to considerable savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

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

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

Changing to the new refrigerants will not be as simple as swapping out the new coolants with what's used in your home's HVAC system. That's because the unique properties of R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant make existing R-410a systems incompatible.  But rest assured—you can still use your current R-410a system for now. Just keep in mind that as time progresses, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will increase as R-410a becomes scarcer.

Planning ahead is the best way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is currently nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the best time to consider investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at Myers Furnace Company can support you with switching 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 examining 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 have difficulty reading the label or can't find your user manual, remain calm! You can always connect with one of the skilled technicians at Myers Furnace Company to help you in figuring it out. Get all the information you need by reaching out at 816-249-1619.