New HVAC Refrigerant in 2025: Significant Changes Are Coming for HVAC Coolants.

Big changes are on the way for the heating and cooling industry! Cooling systems transitioning from R-410a to newer refrigerants like R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant will be implemented in 2025. These new coolants are designed to be better for the environment and satisfy revised regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your current HVAC system and upcoming services?

This change will minimize the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will use a a different 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 investigate how these updates can impact your home's comfort.

Why Are They Phasing Out R-410a for New HVAC Refrigerant?

For a long time, R-410a was the go-to refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But analysis revealed that R-410a still contributes to global warming. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted a strategy back in 2021. The industry will progressively eliminate R-410a to replace it with refrigerants that are better for the environment.

The HVAC industry has made 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 adapt. And just like then, this change will affect how systems are engineered as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians should prepare for these new refrigerants if they want to continue enjoying the safest, most economical cooling possible.

Which New Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The coming refrigerants fall under the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're engineered to provide the same efficient cooling while substantially decreasing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is believed to be especially effective due to its GWP being approximately 78% less than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is actually more flammable than R-410a, improvements to system designs and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, modern cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly more energy efficient, leading to substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you maintain your system with routine HVAC maintenance.

This change isn't just about substituting 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 household 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 Transition to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Changing to the new refrigerants won't be as straightforward as replacing what's used in your current HVAC system. That's because the distinct 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 rest assured—you can continue to use your current R-410a system for now. Just be aware that as time goes on, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will go up as R-410a becomes scarcer.

Preparing in advance 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 contemplate switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at Heartland Heating & Cooling can help you in making the transition with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which HVAC Refrigerant Is in My Air Conditioner?

Unsure which refrigerant your AC system employs? 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 are unable to decipher the label or can't find your user manual, don't stress! You can always call one of the professional technicians at Heartland Heating & Cooling to help you in determining this information. Get all the details you need by giving us a call at 515-344-3579.