If your air conditioner is on the older side and you haven’t gone shopping for a unit in a while, it may surprise you to learn that new systems will no longer feature the long-standard R410-A refrigerant. What is the new HVAC refrigerant 2025, and what should you do to prepare for this change? Learn the answer below, then call us for AC services in Dayton, OH.
What Is the R410-A Phase-Out?
In 2020, the Environmental Protection Agency gained the authority to regulate damaging hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) as part of an effort to reduce global warming. Per Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations, HVAC manufacturers must switch to a refrigerant with a global warming potential (GWP) of no more than 700 by 2025.
R410-A, the most common type of refrigerant, has a GWP of 2,088, which far exceeds the limits set by the EPA. Modern air conditioners will feature one of two alternatives: R454-B or R-32 refrigerant.
Both refrigerants have an A2L classification, which means they’re less harmful to the environment than R410-A. R454-B refrigerant has a GWP of 466, and the GWP of R-32 refrigerant is 675, putting both below the EPA’s GWP limit.
The main difference between the new HVAC refrigerant in 2025 and R410-A is that A2L refrigerants are classified as “mildly flammable.” However, A2L refrigerants are extremely unlikely to ignite, making them very safe for your Dayton, OH, home.
The new refrigerants will require a refrigerant leak safety control, which will automatically shut off the system if it detects a coolant leak. Your HVAC technician can explain this to you in more detail when installing your new air conditioner.
What Should Dayton Homeowners Do To Prepare for The New HVAC Refrigerant 2025?
If you have an older air conditioner, you’re probably wondering what the new HVAC refrigerant in 2025 means for you. Will you be required to replace your unit with one that uses A2L coolant?
You can continue to use your R410-A system for as long as you like—there is no mandate that requires you to replace it with a new one. However, after the phase-out, R410-A coolant will become harder to find, which could cause problems if you need HVAC repair. You may want to consider replacing your unit sooner rather than later to avoid this.
Proactively replacing your unit seems expensive, but it can save you a lot of money in the long run. You won’t be left scrambling to purchase a unit when the phase-out kicks in, which means you have time to shop around and get the best price. On top of that, newer air conditioners are much more efficient than outdated models, so you’ll save money on your cooling bills.
What if you’d like to buy a new unit that still uses the old refrigerant? Will R10-A units still be available? For now, yes. R-410A systems manufactured before 2025 have a one-year grace period and must be sold before 2026. So, if you want one of these systems, it’s smart to shop now. Expect the stock to decrease quickly as the 2026 deadline draws near.
Let Our HVAC Experts in Dayton, OH, Help You Get Ready for the New HVAC Refrigerant in 2025
Are you considering installing a modern air conditioner in anticipation of the new HVAC refrigerant in 2025? Butler Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is here to help. Below are just a few great reasons to choose us for air conditioner installation in Dayton:
- We’ve proudly served Dayton and nearby cities since 1949. Over the decades, we’ve built satisfying relationships with our many customers and consider them part of our family.
- We have an A+ Better Business Bureau rating and a collection of five-star reviews from happy customers. Our ratings and reviews reflect our commitment to top-notch service.
- We’re a one-stop shop for HVAC services in Dayton. In addition to air conditioner installation, we also offer HVAC maintenance, repairs, and plumbing services.
- We offer affordable rates, specials, and rebates to help you save even more money. Need help purchasing a new air conditioner? Talk to us about our financing options.
- We have close ties with the Dayton community and show our support by volunteering for activities, donating to local charities, and contributing to events.
Ready to make the switch to a newer, safer air conditioner? Give us a call to schedule AC installation in preparation for the new HVAC refrigerant in 2025, or keep reading to get help detecting HVAC problems.