Driven by environmental concerns, the HVAC industry is undergoing a significant shift with a phaseout of a refrigerant called R-410A. Here’s what you need to know about this gradual HVAC refrigerant phaseout process and what to do if your HVAC system uses R-410A refrigerant.
Why Is R-410A Being Phased Out?
R-410A formerly had a reputation for being an eco-friendly HVAC refrigerant option because it does not contain chlorine. However, despite this benefit, the refrigerant has come under scrutiny for its contributions to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. R-410A has a high global warming potential—a measurement of the heat-trapping ability of a gas relative to carbon dioxide over a specific time.
In response, the Environmental Protection Agency introduced plans to eliminate R-410A and transition to HVAC refrigerants with a lower global warming potential. As of Jan. 1, 2023, American HVAC manufacturers stopped making new air conditioners and heat pumps that use R-410A. After Jan. 1, 2025, R-410 will no longer be available for use in equipment.
What Is Replacing R-410A?
Two low global warming potential refrigerants are EPA-approved replacements for R-410A; R-32 and R-454B. These HVAC refrigerant alternatives offer similar cooling with less environmental impact, allowing the HVAC industry to maintain high performance standards.
What Is R-454B Refrigerant?
R-454B is a combination of two chemical compounds called hydrofluorocarbon and hydrofluoroolefin. It has a global warming potential of approximately 466, compared to R-410A’s GWP of 2088. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers classifies R-454B as nontoxic and mildly flammable.
Switching to R-454B is one energy-efficient way for residential and light commercial HVAC systems to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and meet sustainability requirements.
R-410A Refrigerant Replacement: What Do I Need to Do?
The R-410A phaseout is a positive move for the HVAC industry. Air conditioners and heat pumps will use these new HVAC refrigerants for the foreseeable future. Because there are no retrofits available for R-410A, you should plan for its eventual unavailability if you own an older air conditioning unit.
- It’s wise to schedule a professional HVAC inspection and tune-up while R-410A is still accessible, as it will become increasingly hard to find over time. HVAC maintenance plans can prolong your cooling system’s usable lifespan and keep it working efficiently.
- If your residential or commercial HVAC system is nearing the end of its life, start anticipating a replacement that uses R-454B or R-32 and complies with EPA regulations for environmental sustainability. You can plan to make the switch and reap the benefits of upgrading your air conditioning equipment. Arctic Circle Air provides free, no-pressure estimates and fast, affordable installations.
Ways to Save Money on HVAC Replacement in Loganville
Staying abreast of new refrigerant changes can help you be a more informed customer and reduce your energy bills. Let our pros at Arctic Circle Air save you money on a new HVAC system. We’ll provide trustworthy advice about the latest discounts, tax credits and affordable HVAC replacement financing options.
Call us today if you need commercial HVAC replacement or residential air conditioning installation in Loganville and beyond.
