Refrigerant Changes FAQ

What You Need to Know About Refrigerant Changes in HVAC Equipment

The HVAC industry is undergoing another significant refrigerant transition to align with environmental initiatives. If your heating or cooling system was manufactured in the early 2000s or later, it’s crucial to understand the changes impacting refrigerants and how they affect your equipment.

Resicon is here to simply breakdown the changes and lay out what Tacoma, WA, and surrounding area residents should expect.

The Transition from R-22 to R-410A: A Milestone in HVAC Refrigerants

R-22, a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) commonly found in older HVAC equipment, was phased out starting in 2010 due to its ozone-depleting properties. By 2020, the production and import of R-22 ceased entirely, leaving homeowners with aging systems to consider replacements.

Most systems installed since then use R-410A, a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) that doesn’t harm the ozone layer but has a high global warming potential (GWP). While R-410A systems have been the industry standard, their environmental impact is leading to the next phase of refrigerant innovation.

The Move to A2L Refrigerants: A Sustainable Future for HVAC Equipment

Under the American Innovation in Manufacturing (AIM) Act, production and use of high-GWP refrigerants like R-410A are being reduced by 85% by 2036. Starting in 2025, all newly manufactured HVAC equipment must use A2L refrigerants, a more environmentally friendly option.

What Are A2L Refrigerants?

A2L refrigerants, such as R-454B and R-32, are classified as “mildly flammable” and offer a lower GWP than their predecessors. While they require specialized handling, they are critical to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving greater sustainability.

Benefits of A2L Refrigerants for HVAC Systems

● Lower Global Warming Potential: The most common A2L refrigerants have significantly lower GWP than R-410A’s 2,088.

○ R-454B: GWP of 467

○ R-32: GWP of 677

● Improved Energy Efficiency: These refrigerants enhance system performance, helping homeowners reduce their carbon footprint and energy bills.

● Compliance with Regulations: A2L refrigerants align with global climate initiatives and ensure your HVAC system meets future standards.

What This Means for Your HVAC Equipment

If your current system uses R-410A or an older refrigerant, like R-22, you may need to upgrade in the coming years. New HVAC systems are being designed to operate efficiently with A2L refrigerants, offering an eco-friendly alternative that supports long-term sustainability goals.