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 coming 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 future services?
This change will minimize the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will use new class of refrigerants that are more compatible with climate goals. If you're considering getting an AC replacement soon, this is the opportune time to learn more about how these updates can influence your home's comfort.
Why Is R-410a Refrigerant Being Phased Out by New Regulations?
For years, R-410a was the preferred refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its efficiency. But research 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 progressively discontinue R-410a to replace it with refrigerants that are better for the environment.
The HVAC industry has made changes like this before. When the industry switched from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, property owners like you had to follow suit. And similarly, this change will affect how systems are designed as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians must prepare for these new refrigerants if they wish to continue enjoying the safest, most economical cooling possible.
New HVAC Refrigerants 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 engineered to offer the same efficient cooling while significantly reducing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.
R-454B refrigerant is believed to be particularly effective due to its GWP being about 78% lower than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is actually more flammable than R-410a, enhancements to system manufacturing and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, modern cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are much more energy efficient, contributing to big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.
This switch isn't simply about changing the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the properties of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. In time, every household and business using R-410a will be required to switch to one of the new systems.
R-410a Replacement: What Do I Need to Do to Transition to New HVAC Refrigerants?
Changing to the new refrigerants won't be as easy as substituting 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 the new refrigerants in a system designed to use R-410a. But don't be concerned—you can still use your current R-410a system for now. Just keep in mind that as time progresses, the cost of repairs and tune-ups will go up as R-410a becomes harder to find.
Preparing in advance is the best way to handle things. If your AC system is currently getting old, this is the perfect time to consider upgrading to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Walter's-Eaton's Electric, Plumbing, Heating & AC can assist you in switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.
What Type of Cooling Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?
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 shows the type of refrigerant, the model number and numerous 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 professional technicians at Walter's-Eaton's Electric, Plumbing, Heating & AC to assist you in determining this information. Get all the details you need by reaching out at 715-318-6728.
