Big changes are coming to the world of HVAC refrigerants, and if you have R-410A equipment, it’s important to know how they’ll affect you.
If you’re wondering what this means for you, your energy costs, or your system’s future, we’ve got the answers.
What is happening with R-410A refrigerant?
Equipment that utilizes R-410A refrigerant will no longer be manufactured in 2025 and beyond. This is due to federal regulations being put in place for increased pushes in energy efficiency and less impact to the environment should the refrigerant be released into the atmosphere. However, repair parts and R-410A refrigerant will still be available to service existing R-410A equipment, but will likely become more expensive. This is similar to the transition to R-410A from R22 some years ago, which is still available to this day albeit at a much higher cost.
What are the new refrigerants (R32 and R-454B)?
There are two A2L refrigerant options that will replace R-410A in North America, R32 and R454-B. Both are similar in that they are slightly more efficient at transferring heat and are better for the environment due to their lower GWP (Global Warming Potential). Some manufacturers, such as Lennox, have chosen to use R454-B, which is a blend of refrigerants that includes R32. Daikin has chosen to use R32 in their North American equipment as they’ve had much success utilizing it in heating and cooling equipment globally for over a decade.
Why is this change important?
This refrigerant change will have the largest impact on the cost of equipment to consumers due to necessary designing, engineering, and testing that will be required. However, there will also be a slight improvement in energy usage and have a lesser impact on the environment should it be exposed to the atmosphere.
What should customers do if they have R410 equipment?
If you currently have HVAC equipment that contains R-410A refrigerant, it is important to have regular maintenance completed to ensure your system works properly and any issues can be identified sooner than later, as the price of repairs will likely increase over time. If you have R-410A equipment that is over 10 years old and is requiring more major repairs, it is recommended to look at upgrading your system to equipment that utilizes the newer A2L refrigerants, once again due to the likely rise in R-410A repair costs and to get a fresh 10- or 12-year warranty on parts to help cut costs of future repairs
How does this change affect costs?
Over the last five years, system replacement costs have skyrocketed for homeowners. First, there were supply chain issues that drove price higher. This was followed by a SEER2 mandate by the federal government, again prices went up, and they are poised to go up again with the introduction of A2L refrigerants. How much will the prices rise? Manufacturers are estimating 15% to 25% more than today’s prices. With R410A beginning to be phased out, like equipment using R22, it will continue to become more and more expensive to repair these systems.
Are there any safety or operational differences with R32 or R-454B?
Yes, R32 and R-454B differ in terms of flammability (both are mildly flammable with A2L classification), global warming potential (R-454B has a lower GWP), and operational characteristics such as discharge temperature, which may influence equipment design and handling protocols.
Who can customers turn to for guidance?
For further information on the A2L refrigerant transition, feel free to ask any of our technicians while they are out servicing your HVAC system, schedule a time to meet with one of our Comfort Advisors, or check out some of the following resources from manufacturers regarding the new refrigerants:
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