Major changes are on the way for the heating and cooling industry! Cooling systems shifting from R-410a to newer refrigerants like R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant will be implemented in 2025. These new coolants are engineered to be friendlier to the environment and meet new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your current HVAC system and future services?
This change will minimize the environmental effect of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will utilize an alternative class of refrigerants that more closely match with climate goals. If you're contemplating getting an AC replacement soon, this is the ideal time to investigate 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 go-to refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its efficiency. But analysis uncovered that R-410a still contributes to global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted a strategy back in 2021. The industry will steadily phase out R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.
The HVAC industry has implemented changes like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, homeowners like you had to adapt. And similarly, this shift will influence how systems are designed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians should get ready for these new refrigerants if they want to continue enjoying the safest, most cost-effective cooling possible.
New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?
The coming refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and include the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're created to provide the same powerful cooling while substantially decreasing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.
R-454B refrigerant is believed to be particularly useful due to its GWP being approximately 78% lower than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is technically more flammable than R-410a, improvements to system designs and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, contemporary cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are much more energy efficient, resulting in considerable savings on energy bills over time, especially if you maintain your system with routine HVAC maintenance.
This change isn't only 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 home and business using R-410a will be required to upgrade to one of the new systems.
R-410a Replacement: How Can I Prepare to Make the Shift to New HVAC Refrigerants?
Switching to the new refrigerants will not be as simple as substituting what's used in your home's HVAC system. That's because the different 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 still use your current R-410a system for now. Just keep in mind that as time passes, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will increase as R-410a becomes scarcer.
Planning ahead is the best way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is currently getting old, this is the ideal time to consider investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at True Temp can assist you in making the transition with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.
What Type of Cooling Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?
Not sure which refrigerant your AC system employs? In general, you can easily locate this information by examining the label on your outdoor unit. This label indicates the type of refrigerant, the model number and various other particulars about your cooling system.
But if you have difficulty reading the label or don't have your user manual, remain calm! You can always call one of the expert technicians at True Temp to assist you in figuring it out. Get all the information you need by contacting us at 772-202-2963.