Significant changes are on the horizon for the heating and cooling industry! Cooling systems moving 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 friendlier to the environment and satisfy updated regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and future services?
This transition will minimize the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will employ an alternative class of refrigerants that more closely match with climate goals. If you're thinking about getting an AC replacement soon, this is the ideal time to explore how these changes can impact your home's comfort.
Why Exactly Is R-410a Being Phased Out?
For a long time, R-410a was the standard refrigerant for residential air conditioners because it worked so well. But analysis uncovered that R-410a still affects global warming. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established a plan back in 2021. The industry will gradually discontinue R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.
The HVAC industry has implemented transitions like this before. When the industry phased out R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, homeowners like you had to adjust. And just like then, this change will affect how systems are engineered as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians must get ready for these new refrigerants if they want to continue enjoying the most reliable, most energy-efficient cooling possible.
Which New Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?
The upcoming refrigerants fall under the new "A2L" classification and encompass the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're engineered to offer the same effective cooling while substantially decreasing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.
R-454B refrigerant is believed to be particularly effective due to its GWP being approximately 78% lower than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, enhancements 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 much more energy efficient, leading to big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.
This transition isn't just about substituting the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the properties of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. In time, 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 Switch to New HVAC Refrigerants?
Switching to the new refrigerants won't be as simple 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 the new refrigerants in a system designed to use R-410a. But rest assured—you can keep using your current R-410a system for now. Just be aware that as time passes, the cost of repairs and tune-ups will increase as R-410a becomes scarcer.
Preparing in advance is the most effective way to manage things. If your AC system is currently getting old, this is the ideal time to consider upgrading to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the team here at Lakeside Heating & Air can assist you in upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.
What HVAC Refrigerant Does My Air Conditioner Use?
Unsure 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 details about your cooling system.
But if you are unable to decipher the label or are missing your user manual, remain calm! You can always connect with one of the expert technicians at Lakeside Heating & Air to help you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the details you need by reaching out at 509-284-4265.
