New HVAC Refrigerant in 2025: Major Changes Are on the Horizon for HVAC Coolants.

Big 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 coming in 2025. These new coolants are developed to be more beneficial to the environment and meet updated regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your existing HVAC system and any new services?

This shift will reduce the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. In 2025, new AC systems will utilize a a different class of refrigerants that more closely match with climate goals. If you're contemplating getting an AC replacement soon, this is the perfect time to learn more about how these new refrigerants can affect your home's comfort.

Why Exactly Is R-410a Being Phased Out?

For years, R-410a was the preferred refrigerant for residential air conditioners because of its effectiveness. But studies showed that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established a strategy back in 2021. The industry will gradually discontinue 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, residents like you had to follow suit. And similarly, this transition will impact how systems are designed as well as the recommended procedures for HVAC maintenance. Both residents and HVAC technicians need to prepare for these new refrigerants if they wish to continue enjoying the most reliable, most cost-effective cooling possible.

Which New Refrigerant Is Replacing R-410a?

The coming refrigerants belong to the new "A2L" classification and encompass the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're engineered 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% lower than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is actually more flammable than R-410a, improvements to system configurations 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, resulting in big savings on energy bills over time, especially if you stay on top of routine HVAC maintenance.

This transition isn't only about substituting the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the components of R-454B refrigerant make it not suitable for use in older systems. Eventually, every home and business using R-410a will be required to upgrade 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 won't be as straightforward 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 make existing R-410a systems incompatible.  But rest assured—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 increase as R-410a becomes harder to find.

Anticipating the changes is the most effective way to handle things. If your AC system is already nearing the end of its lifespan, this is the perfect time to think about investing in a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the HVAC specialists here at Bell Mechanical Services can support you with switching with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.

Which HVAC Refrigerant Is in My Air Conditioner?

Unsure which refrigerant your AC system uses? 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 various other particulars about your cooling system.

But if you are unable to decipher the label or can't find your user manual, don't worry! You can always connect with one of the expert technicians at Bell Mechanical Services to assist you in determining this information. Get all the details you need by giving us a call at 888-863-0560.