Major changes are on the way for the heating and cooling industry! Cooling systems shifting from R-410a to newer refrigerants like R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant will be implemented in 2025. These new coolants are developed to be more beneficial to the environment and satisfy revised regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and any new services?
This shift will minimize the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will utilize new class of refrigerants that are more compatible with climate goals. If you're thinking about getting an AC replacement soon, this is the perfect time to explore how these new refrigerants can affect 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 showed that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. Because of this, 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 implemented shifts 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 transition will affect how systems are constructed as well as the optimal methods for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians must get ready for these new refrigerants if they want to keep experiencing the safest, most economical cooling possible.
Which New Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?
The coming refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're designed to offer the same efficient cooling while greatly lowering their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.
R-454B refrigerant is believed to be especially useful due to its GWP being around 78% lower than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, improvements to system manufacturing and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, today's cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are considerably more energy efficient, contributing to considerable savings on energy bills over time, especially if you stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.
This transition isn't just about swapping out the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the characteristics of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. Eventually, every home and business using R-410a will need to transition to one of the new systems.
R-410a Replacement: What Should I Consider in Order to Change to New HVAC Refrigerants?
Switching to the new refrigerants won't be as simple 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 rest assured—you can still use your current R-410a system for now. Just know that as time progresses, the price of repairs and tune-ups will increase as R-410a becomes harder to find.
Anticipating the changes is the best way to handle things. If your AC system is already nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the perfect time to contemplate upgrading to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the team here at Parker County Cooling & Heating can support you with making the transition with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.
What HVAC Refrigerant Does My Air Conditioner Use?
Not sure which refrigerant your AC system utilizes? In general, you can easily learn this information by inspecting the label on your outdoor unit. This label indicates the type of refrigerant, the model number and various other details about your cooling system.
But if you can't read the label or are missing your user manual, don't stress! You can always call one of the expert technicians at Parker County Cooling & Heating to assist you in determining this information. Get all the information you need by reaching out at 817-380-5213.