If you’re like many property owners…
You likely don’t think much about your cooling system beyond addressing occasional malfunctions and scheduling annual tune-ups. Yet a recent change concerning refrigerant, a vital component of air conditioners and heat pumps, may require you to take immediate action for your HVAC unit.
The 2025 HVAC refrigerant change will eventually affect everybody. Below, our Air Depot Cooling & Heating team explains what you should know about it.
What To Expect With Changes To HVAC Refrigerants
Since 2020, the HVAC industry has been phasing out environmentally harmful, toxic refrigerants from cooling systems according to the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) outlines specific transition dates for manufacturers to start using the approved refrigerants, which fall into the A2L class.
So, what does this mean?
All residential and light commercial cooling systems that manufacturers make after January 1, 2025, must include the new refrigerant. For any system made before that date, the installation deadline is January 1, 2026.
Property owners with existing heat pumps and air conditioning units do not need to implement the 2025 HVAC refrigerant change. The outdated R-410A and R-134a refrigerants will be available for the time being, but their imports and production will slowly end within the next few years. As such, it’s possible to continue using existing cooling systems in properties even if the refrigerant isn’t updated.
What Makes A2L Refrigerants Different From Older HVAC Chemicals?
As part of the EPA’s regulations, the maximum limit for global warming potential (GWP) for refrigerants is 750. Since the old R-410A standard has a GWP of over 2,000, it’s no longer acceptable for newer equipment.
According to the 2025 HVAC refrigerant change, the new standard is A2L, which includes R-32 and R-454B. These options have lower flammability and less toxicity than the older refrigerant standards – meaning they’re safer and less damaging to the environment.
How Home Builders, HVAC Technicians, and Manufacturers Are Adjusting to the Change
Because it’s impossible to safely use A2L refrigerants in old equipment, manufacturers must redesign their systems to accommodate the change. That may include incorporating additional safety features to minimize the risk of a fire or leak. They may also need to update their handling and installation practices for technicians.
Home builders must also be aware of the change and ensure proper education and coordination with construction crews and HVAC contractors. They should establish a clear switch-over timeline to upgrade existing equipment with new models.
Although heating and cooling technicians must receive proper education and training on handling modernized systems, additional EPA certification isn’t necessary. Newer systems may have redesigns for the compressor, refrigerant charge size, and other components to accommodate the updated refrigerants.
Contact Air Depot Cooling & Heating Today for More Help With Your Cooling System
At Air Depot, we know how overwhelming new regulations can be for residents of Cypress and nearby communities. Thankfully, our NATE-certified technicians stay on top of the latest industry developments to ensure our customers get the best services that comply with all local and federal laws and regulations.
If you need repairs or a replacement for your air conditioner or heat pump, or have questions on what this mandate means for you, contact our team at (281) 477-3700.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was I Supposed To Replace My Air Conditioning System Before January 2025?
While many experts recommended replacing air conditioners before the January 2025 deadline to accommodate the latest refrigerant changes, it wasn’t mandatory. Existing heat pumps and cooling units aren’t subject to EPA regulations, so you can use your equipment until the end of its lifespan.
Which Is the Better A2L Refrigerant?
The R-32 refrigerant is one of the best A2Ls that comply with the AIM Act because it’s a pure refrigerant. It’s also convenient and accessible since most major HVAC manufacturers use it.
Can I Still Use R-410A To Repair and Recharge My Current HVAC System?
Yes, R-410A will still be available for repairs and maintenance, even with the 2025 HVAC refrigerant change. It won’t be completely out of production for several years due to a slow phase-out process, but it’ll eventually become more expensive and harder to find.
What Should I Do To Prepare?
Prepare now by contacting a local HVAC company to evaluate your cooling system. If it’s near the end of its life, consider replacing it with an updated model that uses one of the approved A2L refrigerants.
