Big changes are on the horizon for the heating and cooling business! 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 designed to be friendlier to the environment and comply with new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and future services?

This transition will minimize the environmental footprint of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will utilize a a different class of refrigerants that are more compatible with climate goals. If you're considering getting an AC replacement soon, this is the ideal time to investigate how these updates can impact your home's comfort.

Why Are They Phasing Out R-410a for New HVAC Refrigerant?

For years, R-410a was the standard refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But studies revealed that R-410a still contributes to global warming. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented a plan back in 2021. The industry will gradually eliminate R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are more environmentally friendly.

The HVAC industry has undergone transitions like this before. When the industry switched from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, property owners like you had to adjust. And just like then, this change will influence how systems are engineered as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians must prepare for these new refrigerants if they wish to continue enjoying the most secure, most economical cooling possible.

What Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The coming refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're created to offer the same powerful cooling while greatly lowering their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is expected to be particularly effective due to its GWP being around 78% less than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is actually more flammable than R-410a, enhancements to system designs and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. Additionally, contemporary cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are considerably more energy efficient, leading to big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

This transition isn't simply 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. In time, every home and business using R-410a will be required to switch to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: What Do I Need to Do to Make the Shift to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Transitioning to the new refrigerants isn't as straightforward as substituting what's used in your home's HVAC system. That's because the unique 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 don't worry—you can continue to use your current R-410a system for now. Just remember that as time passes, the expense of repairs and tune-ups will go up as R-410a becomes scarcer.

Anticipating the changes is the most effective way to handle things. If your AC system is currently aging, this is the perfect time to think about upgrading to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the team here at MPC Heating & Cooling can assist you in making the transition with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What Type of Cooling Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?

Uncertain which refrigerant your AC system utilizes? In general, you can easily find this information by checking the label on your outdoor unit. This label indicates the type of refrigerant, the model number and various other specifications about your cooling system.

But if you can't read the label or don't have your user manual, don't worry! You can always call one of the expert technicians at MPC Heating & Cooling to help you in figuring it out. Get all the info you need by giving us a call at 308-832-4321.