Another refrigerant changeout is underway. Yes, this means homeowners and commercial business owners must be prepared for the continued phase-out of older refrigerants. The HVAC industry must phase out R-410A and replace it with A2L refrigerants to comply with new regulations. The following overview will help you understand why this change is necessary and how it will affect you.
R-410A: Why It’s No Longer Good Enough
Previously, a phaseout forced homeowners and businesses to replace air conditioners that used R-22 (Freon) with more modern units. The replacement systems used R-410A because it was safer for the environment.
While R-410A doesn’t harm the ozone layer, it does contain hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). The HFCs in R-410A trap gases and have longer lifetimes, giving them the potential to contribute to climate change.
In response, the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020 required that the HVAC industry phase out R-410A. Residential and light commercial air conditioners and ductless heat pumps must meet a phaseout deadline of January 1, 2025.
Equipment manufactured before that date has an extended one-year grace period. All units manufactured after January 1, 2025 must use the new A2L refrigerants.
What Is an A2L Refrigerant?
There are a few benefits that A2L refrigerants offer over R-410A. These refrigerants have lower toxicity, and they’re only mildly flammable when compared to other refrigerants. They also have significantly lower global warming potential. Examples of A2L refrigerants include R-454B and R-32.
When Do You Have to Upgrade to the New R-454B and R-32 Refrigerants?
This phaseout is similar to the previous R-22 (freon) phaseout in that the sense of urgency mainly applies to HVAC manufacturers and home builders. The HVAC industry must design new equipment to accommodate the updated refrigerants. Similarly, home builders must design homes for the updated design of modern HVAC equipment.
Homeowners and commercial business owners don’t have to jump the gun. As long as there isn’t a sign of a refrigerant leak, you can keep your current system. You might choose to keep your system for as long as possible. Good maintenance can help you avoid making this switch until the next phaseout becomes necessary.
You should keep in mind that maintenance and repairs will become much more costly over time. As the HVAC industry rises to meet the demand for modern equipment, the availability of parts and materials for R-410A systems will become scarcer and more expensive.
In the meantime, keep up with annual tune-ups. Schedule prompt repairs as needed. Air filter changes are especially important since a clogged filter will affect the unit’s performance.
If you suspect a refrigerant leak, contact your HVAC technician immediately. Your technician may be able to fix a leak and help you delay your AC replacement longer. Typically, systems older than fifteen years experiencing leaks should be replaced.
The Benefits of Switching to an A2L System Right Away
Replacing your current cooling system so soon might seem like an expensive and costly endeavor. Even so, it carries some impressive benefits of its own. Consider the following advantages of switching to an A2L system right away.
Reduce Your Global Warming Impact
You can immediately have a positive impact on global warming in your community. Since you’re upgrading to a less harmful refrigerant, your effects on the environment will improve.
Peace of Mind
Consider making the switch and forgetting about it. You won’t have to worry about complying with any new phaseout for many more years. This can take a huge burden off your mind.
Pay Less to Your Utility Company
A2L systems are more energy efficient than previous systems. They’re even more cost-efficient than R-410A models. Making the switch right away can help you lower your energy costs instantly. If you have an older system, installing a new A2L system can help you save significantly.
Boost Your Indoor Comfort
Installing a new AC system to comply with the phaseout can help solve your cooling problems. Proper unit sizing and new ductwork insulation can significantly increase your comfort and reduce operating costs.
Quick Comparison: R-410A vs. New A2L Refrigerants (R-454B & R-32)
| Category | R-410A | R-454B | R-32 |
| EPA Phaseout? | Yes – 2025 | No | No |
| Ozone Impact | None | None | None |
| GWP (lower is better) | ~2088 | ~466 | ~675 |
| Flammability | None | Mild | Mild |
| Used In New Systems? | ❌ After 2025 | ✔ | ✔ |
| Efficiency | Good | Very good | Excellent |
| Maintenance Cost Trend | Increasing | Stable | Stable |