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