Major changes are on the horizon for the heating and cooling business! Cooling systems shifting from R-410a to newer refrigerants like R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant will be coming in 2025. These new coolants are developed to be more beneficial to the environment and satisfy new regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and future services?
This transition will decrease the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will utilize an alternative class of refrigerants that better align with climate goals. If you're thinking about getting an AC replacement soon, this is the opportune time to investigate how these updates can influence your home's comfort.
Why Is R-410a Refrigerant Being Phased Out by New Regulations?
For a long time, R-410a was the standard refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But analysis showed that R-410a still affects 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 better for the environment.
The HVAC industry has made transitions 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 just like then, this transition will impact how systems are engineered as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both property owners and HVAC technicians must prepare for these new refrigerants if they want to keep experiencing the safest, most cost-effective cooling possible.
Which New Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?
The new batch of refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and include the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're designed to deliver 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 technically more flammable than R-410a, enhancements to system manufacturing and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, contemporary cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are much more energy efficient, leading to substantial savings on energy bills over time, especially if you keep up with routine HVAC maintenance.
This transition isn't only about substituting the refrigerant—it impacts the whole HVAC system because the characteristics of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. Ultimately, every household and business using R-410a will have to switch to one of the new systems.
R-410a Replacement: What Should I Consider in Order to Make the Shift to New HVAC Refrigerants?
Switching to the new refrigerants will not be as easy 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 them in a system that uses R-410a. But don't be concerned—you can keep using your current R-410a system for now. Just know that as time passes, the cost of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes less available.
Preparing in advance is the most effective way to stay on top of things. If your AC system is already nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the perfect time to think about switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the team here at JTech Mechanical can help you in switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.
What Type of Cooling Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?
Not sure which refrigerant your AC system employs? In general, you can easily locate this information by checking the label on your outdoor unit. This label indicates the type of refrigerant, the model number and numerous other specifications about your cooling system.
But if you can't read the label or can't find your user manual, don't stress! You can always connect with one of the professional technicians at JTech Mechanical to assist you in identifying the refrigerant. Get all the info you need by reaching out at 281-231-8768.