Major changes are on the way for the heating and cooling industry! Cooling systems shifting 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 friendlier to the environment and comply with updated 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 use new class of refrigerants that better align with climate goals. If you're contemplating getting an AC replacement soon, this is the opportune time to investigate how these new refrigerants can impact 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 research showed that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted a plan back in 2021. The industry will steadily phase out R-410a to make room for refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.

The HVAC industry has implemented shifts like this before. When the industry switched from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, homeowners like you had to adjust. And just like then, this shift will affect how systems are designed as well as the optimal methods for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians need to prepare for these new refrigerants if they wish to keep experiencing the most secure, most cost-effective cooling possible.

What Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The upcoming refrigerants are categorized under the new "A2L" classification and contain the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're created to offer the same efficient cooling while substantially decreasing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.

R-454B refrigerant is believed to be particularly useful due to its GWP being about 78% lower 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 significantly more energy efficient, resulting in big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.

This switch isn't simply about replacing 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 residence and business using R-410a will have to upgrade to one of the new systems.

R-410a Replacement: What Do I Need to Do to Transition to New HVAC Refrigerants?

Transitioning to the new refrigerants isn't as easy as replacing what's used in your home's HVAC system. That's because the distinct properties of R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant make existing R-410a systems incompatible.  But rest assured—you can continue to use your current R-410a system for now. Just remember that as time goes on, the cost of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes scarcer.

Preparing in advance is the optimal way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is currently getting old, this is the ideal time to think about investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Franklin's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc can help you in upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

What Type of Cooling Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?

Uncertain which refrigerant your AC system employs? In general, you can easily locate this information by inspecting the label on your outdoor unit. This label shows the type of refrigerant, the model number and various other details 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 call one of the expert technicians at Franklin's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc to help you in determining this information. Get all the information you need by contacting us at 662-281-1231.