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 implemented in 2025. These new coolants are designed to be better for the environment and comply with new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and upcoming services?
This shift will reduce the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will employ an alternative class of refrigerants that more closely match with climate goals. If you're considering getting an AC replacement soon, this is the perfect time to explore how these new refrigerants 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 of its effectiveness. But analysis uncovered that R-410a still contributes to global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented an initiative back in 2021. The industry will steadily phase out R-410a to replace it with refrigerants that are more environmentally 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 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 get ready for these new refrigerants if they want to keep experiencing the most reliable, most cost-effective cooling possible.
What Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?
The upcoming refrigerants fall under the new "A2L" classification and encompass the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're created to provide the same effective cooling while significantly reducing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.
R-454B refrigerant is expected to be particularly effective due to its GWP being around 78% lower than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, enhancements to system manufacturing and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, today's cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are considerably more energy efficient, leading to substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you maintain your system with routine HVAC maintenance.
This switch isn't just 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. Ultimately, every household and business using R-410a will have to upgrade to one of the new systems.
R-410a Replacement: What Do I Need to Do 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 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 passes, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will increase as R-410a becomes less available.
Planning ahead is the optimal way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is already getting old, this is the best time to think about investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Northern Comfort Inc can support you with upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.
What HVAC Refrigerant Does My Air Conditioner Use?
Uncertain which refrigerant your AC system employs? In general, you can easily learn this information by examining 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 are missing your user manual, don't worry! You can always call one of the expert technicians at Northern Comfort Inc to assist you in figuring it out. Get all the information you need by giving us a call at 507-387-6596.
