Major changes are coming 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 engineered to be more beneficial to the environment and satisfy new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and future services?
This change will reduce the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will employ a a different class of refrigerants that better align with climate goals. If you're considering getting an AC replacement soon, this is the perfect time to explore how these updates can influence your home's comfort.
Why Is R-410a Refrigerant Being Phased Out by New Regulations?
For a long time, R-410a was the go-to refrigerant for residential air conditioners because it worked so well. But analysis revealed that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established a strategy back in 2021. The industry will progressively discontinue R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.
The HVAC industry has made changes 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 impact how systems are constructed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians must prepare for these new refrigerants if they wish to keep experiencing the most reliable, most economical cooling possible.
What Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?
The coming refrigerants are categorized under the new "A2L" classification and encompass the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're designed 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 especially effective due to its GWP being about 78% less than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, enhancements to system designs and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, contemporary cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly more energy efficient, leading to big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.
This switch isn't just about replacing the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the characteristics of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. Eventually, every household and business using R-410a will need to switch to one of the new systems.
R-410a Replacement: What Should I Consider in Order to Change to New HVAC Refrigerants?
Transitioning to the new refrigerants won't be as straightforward as replacing what's used in your current 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 know that as time goes on, the price of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes harder to find.
Preparing in advance is the most effective way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is already aging, this is the ideal time to consider investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the team here at Arizona Comfort Systems can assist 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 checking the label on your outdoor unit. This label displays the type of refrigerant, the model number and numerous 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 professional technicians at Arizona Comfort Systems to help you in figuring it out. Get all the information you need by reaching out at 520-415-5681.