Big 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 coming in 2025. These new coolants are developed to be friendlier to the environment and satisfy updated regulations about global warming. But what does that mean for your present HVAC system and upcoming services?
This shift will minimize the environmental impact of our air conditioning systems. Beginning in 2025, new AC systems will use an alternative class of refrigerants that better align with climate goals. If you're contemplating getting an AC replacement soon, this is the perfect time to explore how these changes 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 revealed that R-410a still negatively impacts global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established a plan back in 2021. The industry will gradually discontinue R-410a to introduce refrigerants that are more environmentally friendly.
The HVAC industry has undergone shifts like this before. When the industry moved away from using R-22 (commonly called Freon) to R-410a, property owners like you had to follow suit. And in the same way, this transition 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 want to keep experiencing the most reliable, most cost-effective cooling possible.
New HVAC Refrigerants Replacing R-410a?
The new batch of refrigerants are categorized under the new "A2L" classification and encompass the newest R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant coolants. They're engineered to offer the same efficient cooling while substantially decreasing their global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410a.
R-454B refrigerant is anticipated to be particularly effective due to its GWP being around 78% lower than R-410a. Although R-454B refrigerant is believed to be more flammable than R-410a, improvements to system manufacturing and maintenance practices will ensure servicing is just as safe to perform. In addition, today's cooling systems using R-454B refrigerant are significantly 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 replacing the refrigerant—it affects the whole HVAC system because the characteristics of R-454B refrigerant make it incompatible with older systems. Ultimately, every home and business using R-410a will need to switch to one of the new systems.
R-410a Replacement: What Should I Consider in Order to Switch to New HVAC Refrigerants?
Changing to the new refrigerants isn't as easy as replacing what's used in your current HVAC system. That's because the different properties of R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant make existing R-410a systems incompatible. But don't worry—you can keep using your current R-410a system for now. Just remember that as time progresses, the price of repairs and tune-ups will rise as R-410a becomes harder to find.
Anticipating the changes is the best way to handle things. If your AC system is already getting old, this is the perfect time to contemplate switching to a newer model that uses the new R-454B refrigerant. Plus, the staff here at Western Mechanical, Inc. can assist you in upgrading with flexible options for HVAC replacement financing.
What HVAC Refrigerant Does My Air Conditioner Use?
Uncertain which refrigerant your AC system utilizes? In general, you can easily locate this information by checking the label on your outdoor unit. This label shows the type of refrigerant, the model number and numerous other particulars about your cooling system.
But if you have difficulty reading the label or don't have your user manual, don't worry! You can always connect with one of the professional technicians at Western Mechanical, Inc. to assist you in figuring it out. Get all the information you need by reaching out at 435-753-5515.