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

Big 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 arriving in 2025. These new coolants are engineered to be better for the environment and satisfy updated regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and any new services?

This shift will reduce the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will use an alternative class of refrigerants that are more compatible with climate goals. If you're thinking about getting an AC replacement soon, this is the perfect time to explore how these new refrigerants can influence 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 effectiveness. But studies showed that R-410a still contributes to global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented a plan back in 2021. The industry will gradually eliminate R-410a to replace it with refrigerants that are better for the environment.

The HVAC industry has made changes like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to adapt. And in the same way, this transition will affect how systems are engineered as well as the optimal methods for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians must prepare for these new refrigerants if they wish to keep experiencing the most reliable, most economical cooling possible.

New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?

The new batch of refrigerants are categorized under the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're created to deliver 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 about 78% lower than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is technically more flammable than R-410a, updates 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 considerably more energy efficient, resulting in substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

This switch isn't just about changing the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the characteristics of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. Ultimately, every residence and business using R-410a will need to transition to one of the new systems.

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

Transitioning to the new refrigerants won't be as simple 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 make existing R-410a systems incompatible.  But don't be concerned—you can keep using your current R-410a system for now. Just be aware that as time goes on, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will increase as R-410a becomes harder to find.

Preparing in advance 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 switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Diedrick's Heating and Air Conditioning can help you in switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which Refrigerant Is in My AC System?

Not sure which refrigerant your AC system employs? In general, you can easily learn this information by checking the label on your outdoor unit. This label shows the type of refrigerant, the model number and many other details about your cooling system.

But if you can't read the label or don't have your user manual, don't stress! You can always connect with one of the professional technicians at Diedrick's Heating and Air Conditioning to assist you in determining this information. Get all the details you need by contacting us at 920-833-7967.