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The HVAC industry is getting ready for a major change at the end of this year. Cooling systems like air conditioners and heat pumps need refrigerant to function. R-410A has been one of the most popular options for a long time, but it’s getting phased out.
This shift is happening to reduce the environmental impact of air conditioning systems that use R-410A coolant, aligning the newer systems with modern climate regulations. Starting in 2025, a new class of refrigerants will take center stage. If you’re already thinking about AC replacement in Plano and beyond, now’s the perfect time to explore just what this change means for your sense of comfort.
Curious about the next steps? 1st Class has all the info! Contact us today for more information and professional advice on the future of your HVAC system.
Why Is R-410A Being Phased Out?
R-410A was the standard HVAC refrigerant for residential air conditioners for many years, known for its efficiency and performance. However, recent studies have shown that R-410A contributes to global warming. In response, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) introduced a plan in 2021 to gradually phase out the use of R-410A in HVAC systems.
This shift toward more environmentally friendly refrigerants isn’t new. In fact, we did the same thing when we transitioned from R-22 (well-known as Freon) to R-410A. Just as before, this change will affect everything from system design to maintenance over the coming years. Homeowners and HVAC professionals must both prepare for the switch to new refrigerants to ensure cooling systems run efficiently.
What Is Replacing R-410A?
This next generation of HVAC refrigerants is known as A2L-class coolants and includes options like R-454B and R-32. These refrigerants were designed with a much lower global warming potential (GWP) than R-410A while still maintaining effective cooling performance. While R-410A is classified as less flammable than R-454B, newer system designs can account for this to maintain safe operation.
What Is R-454B Refrigerant?
R-454B is one of the key new refrigerants set to replace R-410A in HVAC systems. With a GWP that’s around 78% lower than R-410A, R-454B offers much more environmentally friendly cooling without sacrificing performance.
While the change involves refrigerants—it impacts the entire HVAC system. Because R-454B has different chemical properties, systems designed for R-410A aren’t compatible with the new refrigerant. Home and business owners will all have to make the switch when the time comes. Fortunately, modern cooling systems with R-454B are more energy-efficient, offering long-term savings on energy bills.
What Do I Need to Do About the R-410A Replacement?
Before you start scrambling to learn about replacement systems, you’ll be relieved to know it’s possible to keep using your existing R-410A system, at least for now. However, repair and tune-up costs from HVAC maintenance plans may increase as the refrigerant becomes harder to source.
Planning ahead for all system upgrades is the smartest move. If your system is nearing the end of its life, now might be the right time to consider replacing it with a newer, more efficient model that uses R-454B, especially when you can take advantage of 1st Class’s HVAC replacement financing options to make this transition easier. We offer free estimates and consultations, so don’t hesitate to reach out when you’re interested in learning more.
What Refrigerant Is in My HVAC System?
Unsure which refrigerant your cooling system uses? You can usually find the information on the label attached to the outdoor unit. This label will list the refrigerant type, model number and other system specifications. If the label isn’t readable, you can also find the coolant type in your user’s manual! But if the label is unreadable or you can’t find the manual, that’s not a problem. You can always reach out to a professional HVAC technician for help.
If you’re ready to explore your options, schedule a free consultation! We can walk you through our available models, current HVAC service offers and everything else you need to find the perfect cooling system for your home. Get in touch with 1st Class today by calling 972-351-8383.
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