What It Means for Your HVAC System

As the HVAC industry gears up for a significant shift, homeowners and businesses need to prepare for the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) refrigerant phase-out, set to begin on January 1, 2025. 

This initiative is aimed at reducing the environmental impact of cooling systems by replacing high global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants like R-410A with more eco-friendly alternatives, including R-454B and R-32. These changes affect not only the types of refrigerants used but also the equipment, costs, and future maintenance of air conditioning and heat pump systems.

Here’s what you need to know about the 2025 refrigerant change and how Gore Heating & Air can help you navigate these updates.

Why the Change?

The primary motivation behind this refrigerant transition is climate change. R-410A, commonly used in residential and light commercial air conditioning systems, has a high GWP, meaning it significantly contributes to global warming when released into the atmosphere. By switching to lower-GWP refrigerants like R-454B and R-32, the HVAC industry can reduce its carbon footprint and help mitigate the impact of greenhouse gases.

Key Dates and Timelines

• January 1, 2025: All newly manufactured HVAC equipment must use the new refrigerants, R-454B or R-32, instead of R-410A.
• January 1, 2026: Equipment made before 2025 that still uses R-410A has a grace period for installation until this date. After that, only systems using the new refrigerants will be eligible for installation.
• Window Air Conditioners: For window units, which don’t require field assembly, a slightly longer grace period is allowed until January 1, 2028.

What About Existing Equipment?

The good news for homeowners is that existing HVAC systems using R-410A or even the older R-22 refrigerant can continue to be used until the end of their natural life. However, as the production of R-410A and R-22 winds down, these refrigerants will become more expensive and harder to find. This means topping off refrigerants or repairing older units may become costly over time.

The New Refrigerants: R-454B and R-32

The new refrigerants replacing R-410A belong to the A2L classification. These refrigerants are considered “mildly flammable,” but they have lower toxicity compared to the previous B-series refrigerants. Homeowners and businesses can feel reassured knowing that while these refrigerants help reduce environmental harm, they also meet safety standards.

• Cylinder Identification: A2L refrigerant cylinders are distinct, featuring a light green-gray color with red tops and left-handed threads. This will help technicians and homeowners identify the new refrigerants in the field.

Cost Considerations

Transitioning to systems that use the new refrigerants could result in higher upfront costs. It’s estimated that these eco-friendly systems may cost an additional $2,000 to $3,000 compared to traditional R-410A systems. However, the environmental benefits and future cost savings on refrigerant replenishment make these systems a worthwhile investment.

Planning for the Future

While the shift to the new refrigerants is a necessary step toward reducing global warming, it also highlights the importance of staying proactive with your HVAC system. Homeowners should consider whether it’s more cost-effective to upgrade to a new, eco-friendly system before their current system becomes costly to maintain.

Contact Gore Heating & Air for Expert Guidance

As the 2025 refrigerant change approaches, now is the time to ensure your HVAC system is ready. Whether you’re looking to upgrade to a new system or need help maintaining your existing equipment, Gore Heating & Air is here to help. 

Our experienced technicians can guide you through the transition, providing cost-effective solutions tailored to your needs.

Call us today to schedule an HVAC consultation and learn more about your options.