New HVAC Refrigerant in 2025: Major Changes Will Go into Effect for HVAC Coolants.

Significant changes are coming 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 revised regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and upcoming services?

This change will reduce the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will use a a different class of refrigerants that more closely match with climate goals. If you're thinking about getting an AC replacement soon, this is the ideal time to learn more about 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 standard refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But research uncovered that R-410a still affects global warming. Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted an initiative back in 2021. The industry will steadily eliminate R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.

The HVAC industry has made shifts like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to follow suit. And just like then, this change will affect how systems are constructed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians must plan for these new refrigerants if they wish to continue enjoying the most secure, most cost-effective cooling possible.

What Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The new batch of refrigerants are categorized under the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're designed to provide the same efficient cooling while greatly lowering their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is anticipated to be particularly useful due to its GWP being around 78% lower than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is actually more flammable than R-410a, enhancements to system configurations and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, modern cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly more energy efficient, contributing to big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.

This switch isn't simply about substituting the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the properties of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. In time, every home and business using R-410a will be required to upgrade to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: How Can I Prepare to Make the Shift to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Transitioning to the new refrigerants will not be as simple as replacing what's used in your home's HVAC system. That's because the unique properties of R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant mean you can't use them in a system that uses R-410a.  But rest assured—you can continue to use your current R-410a system for now. Just know that as time passes, the cost of repairs and tune-ups will increase as R-410a becomes less available.

Preparing in advance is the best way to handle things. If your AC system is currently getting old, this is the best time to consider switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at Brookwood Inc can help you in upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What HVAC Refrigerant Does My Air Conditioner Use?

Unsure which refrigerant your AC system utilizes? 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 particulars about your cooling system.

But if you can't read the label or can't find your user manual, remain calm! You can always call one of the expert technicians at Brookwood Inc to assist you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the information you need by contacting us at 641-316-9803.