Major changes are on the way for the heating and cooling business! 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 satisfy revised regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and upcoming services?

This change will reduce the environmental effect of our air conditioning systems. Starting with 2025, new AC systems will employ a a different class of refrigerants that better align with climate goals. If you're contemplating getting an AC replacement soon, this is the opportune time to learn more about how these changes can influence your home's comfort.

Why Are They Phasing Out R-410a for New HVAC Refrigerant?

For a long time, R-410a was the go-to refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its efficiency. But studies uncovered that R-410a still contributes to global warming. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted a plan back in 2021. The industry will steadily discontinue R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.

The HVAC industry has undergone changes like this before. When the industry switched from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, property owners like you had to follow suit. And similarly, this shift will influence how systems are designed as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians need to plan for these new refrigerants if they wish to continue enjoying the most secure, most cost-effective cooling possible.

What 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 designed to deliver the same powerful 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% less than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is actually more flammable than R-410a, improvements 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 significantly more energy efficient, leading to considerable savings on energy bills over time, especially if you maintain your system with routine HVAC maintenance.

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

R-410a Replacement: What Should I Consider in Order to Transition to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Switching to the new refrigerants won't be as straightforward 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 them in a system that uses R-410a.  But rest assured—you can continue to use your current R-410a system for now. Just be aware that as time goes on, the price of repairs and tune-ups will go up 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 perfect time to contemplate upgrading to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Booneville Heating & Cooling can help you in upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What Type of Cooling Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?

Uncertain 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 numerous other particulars about your cooling system.

But if you can't read the label or can't find your user manual, don't worry! You can always connect with one of the professional technicians at Booneville Heating & Cooling to assist you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the info you need by reaching out at 662-269-8716.