Significant changes are coming for the heating and cooling business! 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 better for the environment and comply with updated regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and future services?
This transition will reduce the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. Starting with 2025, new AC systems will utilize an alternative class of refrigerants that better align with climate goals. If you're considering getting an AC replacement soon, this is the opportune time to learn more about how these updates can affect your home's comfort.
Why Is R-410a Refrigerant Being Phased Out by New Regulations?
For years, R-410a was the go-to refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But analysis uncovered that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted an initiative back in 2021. The industry will steadily phase out R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are more eco-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 just like then, this transition will affect how systems are constructed as well as the optimal methods for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians should plan for these new refrigerants if they wish to keep experiencing the most secure, most cost-effective cooling possible.
Which New Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?
The upcoming refrigerants are categorized under the new "A2L" classification and include the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're engineered to deliver the same efficient cooling while substantially decreasing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.
R-454B refrigerant is anticipated to be particularly useful due to its GWP being approximately 78% lower than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, enhancements to system configurations and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, contemporary cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are much more energy efficient, resulting in substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you maintain your system with routine HVAC maintenance.
This change isn't simply about changing the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the components of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. Eventually, every home and business using R-410a will need to upgrade to one of the new systems.
R-410a Replacement: What Should I Consider in Order to Make the Shift to New HVAC Refrigerants?
Changing to the new refrigerants isn't as simple as substituting what's used in your home's 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 still use your current R-410a system for now. Just remember that as time passes, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will increase as R-410a becomes less available.
Anticipating the changes is the most effective 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 Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling can help you in switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.
Which HVAC Refrigerant Is in My Air Conditioner?
Uncertain which refrigerant your AC system uses? In general, you can easily find this information by inspecting the label on your outdoor unit. This label displays the type of refrigerant, the model number and many other specifications about your cooling system.
But if you have difficulty reading the label or are missing your user manual, don't stress! You can always call one of the professional technicians at Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling to assist you in figuring it out. Get all the details you need by contacting us at (815) 914-6197.