New HVAC Refrigerant in 2025: Big Changes Will Go into Effect for HVAC Coolants.

Major 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 arriving in 2025. These new coolants are engineered to be more beneficial to the environment and satisfy updated regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and any new services?

This transition will decrease the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. Starting with 2025, new AC systems will utilize an alternative class of refrigerants that more closely match with climate goals. If you're thinking about getting an AC replacement soon, this is the opportune time to learn more about how these changes can affect your home's comfort.

Why Is R-410a Refrigerant Being Phased Out by New Regulations?

For a long time, R-410a was the preferred refrigerant for residential air conditioners because it worked so well. But studies uncovered that R-410a still contributes to global warming. Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented a strategy back in 2021. The industry will steadily discontinue R-410a to replace it with refrigerants that are more environmentally friendly.

The HVAC industry has implemented transitions like this before. When the industry switched from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, homeowners like you had to adjust. And similarly, this change will impact how systems are engineered as well as the optimal methods for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians should plan for these new refrigerants if they want to keep experiencing the most reliable, most cost-effective cooling possible.

New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?

The upcoming refrigerants are categorized under the new "A2L" classification and encompass 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 expected to be particularly effective due to its GWP being about 78% lower than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, improvements to system configurations and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, contemporary cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly more energy efficient, leading to considerable savings on energy bills over time, especially if you stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.

This transition isn't just about changing the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the characteristics of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. In time, every residence 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?

Changing to the new refrigerants isn't as easy as swapping out the new coolants with 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 continue to use your current R-410a system for now. Just be aware that as time goes on, the cost of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes harder to find.

Planning ahead is the most effective way to handle things. If your AC system is already nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the best time to contemplate investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Woody's Sudden Service can support you with switching 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 locate this information by inspecting the label on your outdoor unit. This label shows the type of refrigerant, the model number and various other particulars about your cooling system.

But if you are unable to decipher the label or are missing your user manual, remain calm! You can always call one of the expert technicians at Woody's Sudden Service to help you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the info you need by reaching out at 703-278-2036.