Starting in 2025, the HVAC industry is switching to A2L refrigerants as required by new environmental regulations. This change is part of a larger effort to reduce the impact of refrigerants on global warming. While it may sound like a big adjustment, homeowners can rest assured that the HVAC refrigerant change won’t require immediate action to most existing HVAC systems.
In this blog, we answer top questions from homeowners and give you all the information you need to know to stay ahead of this important change.
What does Refrigerant Do For My Home?
Your HVAC system relies on refrigerant, a special chemical that moves heat, making your home comfortable. This substance constantly cycles through coils and lines, turning from a liquid to a vapor, absorbing heat from inside, and then releasing it outside. Without refrigerant, your air conditioner couldn’t cool your home or control indoor temperatures.
What Refrigerant Does My AC Use Now?
Most HVAC systems manufactured from the early 2000s through the early 2020s use R-410A to heat and cool homes. R-410A is a refrigerant used in residential and commercial air conditioning systems. The R-410A refrigerant initially replaced older compounds like R-22 (commonly known as Freon) due to its zero ozone depletion potential. Now, R-410A is being phased out because of its high global warming potential (GWP).
What Refrigerant is Replacing R-410A?
To meet the EPA’s new environmental standards, the industry will shift to lower-GWP refrigerants. Most of these lower-GWP refrigerants are classified as A2L refrigerants. These refrigerants are considered “mildly flammable” and require updated safety codes and handling protocols.
What Are A2L Refrigerants?
A2L refrigerants are a class of refrigerants that are low in toxicity, and have a lower global warming potential (GWP) compared to older refrigerants like R-410A. The move toward A2Ls is part of a broader effort to reduce the environmental impact of HVAC systems by using refrigerants that are more energy-efficient and safer for the environment.
The two main types of A2L refrigerants used for residential cooling systems are R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant.
Frequently Asked Questions About A2L Refrigerants
With the substantial HVAC refrigerant change on the horizon, homeowners have many questions. Here are some of the most common inquiries about these new refrigerants.
Do I need to replace my current HVAC system because of the new refrigerants?
Not necessarily. While A2L refrigerants will be more commonly used in new HVAC systems starting in 2025, existing systems that use R-410A or other refrigerants will still function as normal for the foreseeable future. If you have an older system, you may start planning for an upgrade to a system that uses A2L refrigerants, as they will be the new standard.
Will A2L refrigerants lower my energy bills?
A2L refrigerants like R-32 and R-454B are more energy energy-efficient than previous compounds and still provide effective cooling. If you’re installing a new system that uses A2L refrigerants, you could potentially see lower energy bills.
Are A2L refrigerants safe for my home?
A2L refrigerants have been extensively tested and are considered safe for residential use. While A2L refrigerants are classified as mildly flammable, they are extremely difficult to ignite and are much safer than A3 refrigerants like hydrocarbons, propane, and isobutane. Proper installation by Aspen Aire’s trained HVAC professionals ensures that the refrigerant is used safely in your system.
Are A2Ls a fire hazard?
A2L refrigerants are not flammable under normal conditions. While they are mildly flammable, it would take a large concentration and significant energy to ignite them. Professionals thoroughly test every A2L to ensure they are safe for everyday use. Additionally, safety groups have instituted new safety standards to protect homeowners.
Do I need to take any action as a homeowner to meet the new refrigerant regulations?
As a homeowner, you don’t need to worry about regulations directly. However, starting in 2025, when homeowners replace their HVAC system, they must choose a unit that complies with the new laws. At Aspen Aire Heating and Cooling, our licensed HVAC professionals are knowledgeable about the refrigerant shift and can help answer any questions you may have about installing a new air conditioner with A2L refrigerants.
Aspen Aire Heating and Cooling | Air Conditioning Experts
As a leading HVAC service provider in Central Iowa, Aspen Aire Heating and Cooling is a leading HVAC service provider in Central Iowa, and our focus is on your home comfort and keeping your air conditioner performing at its best. Whether you’re upgrading to a new system or simply need expert advice about the upcoming HVAC refrigerant change, our team has the knowledge and experience to guide you through the process.
- Expert HVAC services
- Knowledgeable about A2L refrigerants
- Energy-efficient, environmentally friendly systems
- Full installation, maintenance, and repair services
- 24/7 emergency support for your peace of mind
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you stay ahead of the 2025 HVAC refrigerant change!