The 2025 HVAC Refrigerant Change

As global warming becomes a bigger concern, various agencies put plans in place to lower commercial and residential impacts on the environment – and one such shift is the HVAC refrigerant change in 2025.

While this change could alleviate environmental concerns, it also sparks anxiety in many home and business owners.

We at Anchor Heating and Air hope to put your mind at ease by exploring the topic below, finding out what you should know about the upcoming changes.

What Does the HVAC Refrigerant Change Mean for You?

The American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act of 2020 incentivizes the phase-out of various household and business appliances that rely on or create hydrofluorocarbons, HVAC systems being among those appliances. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set a goal for 2025 that requires HVAC systems not to exceed a score of 750 global warming potential (GWP).

What does that mean for you? It means you might have to shift to a new type of HVAC system. Many typical systems require refrigerants called R-410A, which carry a GWP of 2,088. That’s a potential of more than 1,000 over the required limit.

Which Refrigerants Will Be Phased Out?

The HVAC refrigerant change specifically targets R-410A because it produces an excessive amount of carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide is one of the primary culprits for depleting the ozone layer, which protects people, animals, and plants from the sun’s intense ultraviolet radiation.

As the ozone layer becomes thinner, more UV rays reach the Earth, incresing global temperatures, and impacting food and water sources. Plus, this refrigerant type can increase repair and maintenance needs for the systems that use it. It circulates at high pressure which causes refrigerant pipes to spring leaks more easily.

Which Refrigerants Will Take Their Place?

You might wonder whether you can keep your old HVAC system and replace the refrigerant. Unfortunately, particular systems require specific refrigerant products to function correctly. However, you can prepare to replace your current system with one that uses R-454B or R-32.

These refrigerants fall under the A2L category and the following models typically use them:

• Window units: You’re likely familiar with the boxy units wedged into window frames. They use eco-friendly A2L refrigerants.
• Packaged terminal air conditioners: If you’ve ever lived in a studio apartment or stayed at a hotel, you likely encountered a PTAC. These units are fixed to the wall beneath windows and condition small spaces.
• International residential and commercial units: Many countries are already ahead of the game. Japan and many European countries predominantly use A2L systems.

While many American homeowners may feel they are navigating unfamiliar territory with the HVAC refrigerant change, they can take notes from their international neighbors about what to expect.

Industry insiders have already learned a thing or two, such as the following:

• A2L refrigerants are fairly safe and unlikely to start a fire.
• Contractors can treat A2L leaks similarly to previous refrigerants.
• Some customers may qualify for tax rebates when they replace old HVACs ahead of time.

Don’t panic if you have a system that uses traditional refrigerants! The changes will take a few years to fully enact. Plus, your preferred HVAC company can help you prepare in the meantime.

We understand that this topic causes confusion and concern for many of our loyal customers. Therefore, we answered a few queries below to help you gain more understanding of the subject.

Will Air Conditioning Systems Cost More After 2025?

Yes, air conditioning systems will likely cost more after 2025. However, you might avoid some of the heightened expenses by upgrading your system this year.

Will R-410A Be Banned After 2025?

No, R-410A will not be banned after 2025, at least not for individual homeowners who currently own a unit that uses this refrigerant. However, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will work with the federal government to ban future imports.

Can I Still Access R-410A?

Yes, you can still access R-410A following the 2025 ban. The EPA extended the deadline for people to switch to units that don’t require A2L refrigerants.

Can I Still Use R-410A Units After 2025?

Yes, you can still R-410A units after 2025. The phaseout is a gradual one that will take several years. If you replace your current unit, however, you might save money or qualify for a tax rebate.

Want to Know More? Contact Anchor Heating and Air for Answers

Don’t sweat the impending HVAC refrigerant change. Anchor Heating and Air have you covered with recommendations and answers. Call 843-564-7777 to discuss replacing your outdated system with a more efficient, environmentally friendly one soon!