New HVAC Refrigerant in 2025: Significant Changes Are Coming for HVAC Coolants.

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 developed to be more beneficial to the environment and comply with revised regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your current HVAC system and upcoming services?

This shift will decrease the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 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 perfect time to learn more about how these new refrigerants can influence your home's comfort.

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

For years, 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. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented a plan back in 2021. The industry will progressively eliminate R-410a to introduce 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 adjust. And similarly, this shift will influence how systems are designed as well as the optimal methods for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians need to plan for these new refrigerants if they want to keep experiencing the most secure, most energy-efficient cooling possible.

What Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The upcoming refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're created to offer the same effective cooling while significantly reducing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is believed to be particularly effective due to its GWP being about 78% less than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, improvements to system designs and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, today's cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly more energy efficient, resulting in big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you maintain your system with routine HVAC maintenance.

This change isn't simply about substituting the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the characteristics of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. Eventually, every residence and business using R-410a will be required to switch 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 won't be as straightforward as substituting what's used in your home's HVAC system. That's because the unique properties of R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant mean you can't use them in a system that uses R-410a.  But don't worry—you can still use your current R-410a system for now. Just remember that as time progresses, the cost of repairs and tune-ups will go up as R-410a becomes scarcer.

Planning ahead is the best way to manage things. If your AC system is already getting old, this is the best time to consider investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Contra Costa Heating & AC can help you in switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which Refrigerant Is in My AC System?

Uncertain which refrigerant your AC system uses? 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 many other specifications about your cooling system.

But if you are unable to decipher the label or are missing your user manual, don't worry! You can always call one of the skilled technicians at Contra Costa Heating & AC to assist you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the details you need by giving us a call at 510-343-9841.