Big changes are on the horizon for the heating and cooling industry! Cooling systems transitioning from R-410a to newer refrigerants like R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant will be implemented in 2025. These new coolants are designed to be more beneficial to the environment and meet revised regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and future services?

This change will decrease the environmental effect of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will employ an alternative class of refrigerants that are more compatible with climate goals. If you're considering getting an AC replacement soon, this is the opportune 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 preferred refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But analysis revealed that R-410a still contributes to global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted a plan back in 2021. The industry will gradually phase out R-410a to replace it with refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.

The HVAC industry has undergone shifts like this before. When the industry switched from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, homeowners like you had to follow suit. And in the same way, this change will impact how systems are constructed as well as the best practices for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians should plan for these new refrigerants if they want to continue enjoying the most reliable, most energy-efficient cooling possible.

What Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The coming refrigerants are categorized 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 anticipated to be especially 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 manufacturing and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, today's cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are much more energy efficient, resulting in substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you maintain your system with routine HVAC maintenance.

This transition isn't just about substituting the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the components of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. Eventually, every residence and business using R-410a will be required to transition to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: How Can I Prepare to Change to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Changing to the new refrigerants isn't as easy as replacing 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 know that as time passes, the price of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes scarcer.

Planning ahead is the optimal way to manage things. If your AC system is already nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the best time to think about switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Titan Heating & Air Conditioning can help you in switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What Type of Cooling Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?

Unsure which refrigerant your AC system uses? In general, you can easily find this information by inspecting the label on your outdoor unit. This label shows the type of refrigerant, the model number and numerous other details about your cooling system.

But if you have difficulty reading the label or don't have your user manual, don't worry! You can always connect with one of the skilled technicians at Titan Heating & Air Conditioning to assist you in figuring it out. Get all the info you need by reaching out at 541-286-6617.