This year and going forward, HVAC systems will no longer use the refrigerant R-410A. This is part of an industry-wide effort to minimize the environmental impacts of refrigerant chemicals. It’s a significant shift that reflects the industry’s focus on sustainability and eco-friendly solutions. Manufacturers have already started using other refrigerant alternatives that are less likely to hurt the environment and contribute to global climate change.
In this blog, our team at EnviroSafe USA covers why this change is happening and how it may affect you.
Why Did HVAC Refrigerants Change in 2025?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has introduced regulations designed to reduce the carbon footprint associated with the HVAC industry. These regulations were developed in response to the effects of greenhouse gases and how they contribute to climate change. They also support international agreements developed with the same goals in mind. R-410A has a higher Global Warming Potential (GWP) than the refrigerants the industry is switching to. 2025 was identified as the target year where the change from R-410A to other refrigerants would take place.
New Refrigerants: R-454B & R-32
The HVAC industry is adopting new refrigerants in an effort to reduce hydroflurocarbons (HFCs). R-454B and R-32 have lower GWP ratings than R-410A. They’re more efficient and are less likely to cause equipment leaks. Their improved heat transfer properties increase HVAC system performance, lowering fuel costs. In addition, these new refrigerants are less flammable and less toxic, making them even better for residential and commercial use. In the end, these new refrigerants simply perform better than R-410A while being much more environmentally friendly.
How Will the Change Impact Me?
HVAC systems that use R-410A can still be serviced, so there’s no need to swap out your air conditioner just yet. In many cases, R-454B is compatible with existing systems, making replacement unnecessary. Any new systems installed this year and later will make use of the new refrigerants. Eventually, obsolete refrigerant will become more difficult to find as time goes on, making it less cost-effective to continue its use. You’ll need to make sure you understand the condition of your current HVAC system, the refrigerant it uses, and its expected remaining lifespan. That should allow you to plan accordingly when the time comes for you to switch to a system using the new refrigerants.
The good news is that switching to new refrigerant systems does more than help the environment. Installing new systems will make it easier for you to comply with future regulations and can keep energy costs, thanks to their efficiency.
Choose Our Team for Expert HVAC Services
The HVAC professionals at EnviroSafe USA have comprehensive training and extensive experience handling cooling system challenges of all kinds. Each of our technicians is licensed, certified, and insured. They also undergo detailed background testing. We service all brands and offer same-day and emergency service. Customers can trust our upfront pricing, free estimates on replacements, and available financing options to ensure they get great services at a great value.
To get more information about HVAC services in the South Jersey area today, reach out to EnviroSafe today.