Significant changes are on the way 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 implemented in 2025. These new coolants are developed to be better for the environment and comply with updated regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and future services?
This change will reduce the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. Starting with 2025, new AC systems will utilize new class of refrigerants that better align with climate goals. If you're thinking about getting an AC replacement soon, this is the ideal time to learn more about how these changes can influence your home's comfort.
Why Is R-410a Refrigerant Being Phased Out by New Regulations?
For years, R-410a was the go-to refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But analysis revealed that R-410a still contributes to global warming. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established a strategy back in 2021. The industry will steadily discontinue R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are better for the environment.
The HVAC industry has undergone transitions like this before. When the industry moved away from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, residents like you had to adapt. And in the same way, this change will impact how systems are engineered as well as the optimal methods for HVAC maintenance. Both homeowners and HVAC technicians must prepare for these new refrigerants if they wish to keep experiencing the most reliable, most economical cooling possible.
What Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?
The new batch of refrigerants fall under the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're engineered to offer the same efficient cooling while significantly reducing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.
R-454B refrigerant is anticipated to be especially efficient due to its GWP being about 78% less than R-410a. While R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, enhancements to system configurations and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, today's cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are considerably more energy efficient, resulting in considerable savings on energy bills over time, especially if you maintain your system with routine HVAC maintenance.
This change isn't only about substituting the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the characteristics of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. Ultimately, every household and business using R-410a will be required to upgrade to one of the new systems.
R-410a Replacement: What Should I Consider in Order to Transition to New HVAC Refrigerants?
Switching to the new refrigerants will not be as simple as swapping out the new coolants with 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 still use your current R-410a system for now. Just keep in mind that as time goes on, the price of repairs and tune-ups will go up as R-410a becomes less available.
Planning ahead is the best way to handle things. If your AC system is currently getting old, this is the perfect time to consider investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Central Heating & Plumbing 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 utilizes? In general, you can easily learn this information by checking the label on your outdoor unit. This label displays the type of refrigerant, the model number and various other specifications about your cooling system.
But if you have difficulty reading the label or don't have your user manual, don't stress! You can always connect with one of the professional technicians at Central Heating & Plumbing to assist you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the info you need by reaching out at 724-401-1843.