Significant changes are on the way for the heating and cooling industry! 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 engineered to be friendlier to the environment and comply with new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and upcoming services?
This change will decrease the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will utilize an alternative class of refrigerants that are more compatible with climate goals. If you're contemplating getting an AC replacement soon, this is the opportune time to explore how these changes can impact your home's comfort.
Why Are They Phasing Out R-410a for New HVAC Refrigerant?
For years, R-410a was the preferred refrigerant for residential air conditioners because it worked so well. But research revealed that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established a strategy back in 2021. The industry will progressively phase out R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are more eco-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, homeowners like you had to adapt. And similarly, this change will influence how systems are constructed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians need to plan for these new refrigerants if they wish to continue enjoying the safest, most energy-efficient cooling possible.
New HVAC Refrigerants 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 created to deliver the same effective cooling while substantially decreasing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.
R-454B refrigerant is believed to be particularly useful due to its GWP being about 78% less than R-410a. Although 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. In addition, today's cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are considerably more energy efficient, resulting in big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.
This change isn't only about replacing the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the characteristics of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. In time, every residence and business using R-410a will have to switch to one of the new systems.
R-410a Replacement: How Can I Prepare to Change to New HVAC Refrigerants?
Transitioning to the new refrigerants isn't as straightforward as swapping out the new coolants with 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 don't worry—you can continue to use your current R-410a system for now. Just remember that as time goes on, the cost of repairs and tune-ups will go up as R-410a becomes less available.
Anticipating the changes is the best way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is currently getting old, this is the perfect time to think about investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Ambience HVAC, Inc. can assist you in upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.
Which Refrigerant Is in My AC System?
Not sure which refrigerant your AC system employs? In general, you can easily find this information by checking 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, don't stress! You can always connect with one of the expert technicians at Ambience HVAC, Inc. to help you in determining this information. Get all the information you need by reaching out at 302-239-HVAC (4822).