New HVAC Refrigerant in 2025: Major Changes Are on the Horizon for HVAC Coolants.

Big 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 developed to be friendlier to the environment and satisfy new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and any new services?

This change will minimize the environmental effect of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will use an alternative class of refrigerants that better align with climate goals. If you're thinking about getting an AC replacement soon, this is the perfect time to explore how these new refrigerants can affect your home's comfort.

Why Exactly Is R-410a Being Phased Out?

For a long time, R-410a was the standard 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) enacted a strategy back in 2021. The industry will steadily eliminate R-410a to replace it with refrigerants that are more environmentally friendly.

The HVAC industry has implemented transitions like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to follow suit. And just like then, 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 energy-efficient cooling possible.

What Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The new batch of refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and encompass the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're designed to deliver the same powerful cooling while significantly reducing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is expected to be particularly useful due to its GWP being about 78% lower than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is actually more flammable than R-410a, updates 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 considerably more energy efficient, resulting in big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

This switch isn't only about changing the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the components of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. Eventually, every household and business using R-410a will be required to switch to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: How Can I Prepare to Switch to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Transitioning to the new refrigerants will not be as straightforward as substituting what's used in your current 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 still use your current R-410a system for now. Just keep in mind that as time progresses, the price of repairs and tune-ups will increase as R-410a becomes harder to find.

Preparing in advance is the best way to manage things. If your AC system is already nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the best time to contemplate upgrading to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at May's Heating & Air can assist you in making the transition with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which HVAC Refrigerant Is in My Air Conditioner?

Uncertain which refrigerant your AC system utilizes? 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 numerous other details 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 skilled technicians at May's Heating & Air to help you in figuring it out. Get all the details you need by contacting us at 301-690-0397.