Refrigerant choice for each application should be made on a case-by-case basis. When replacing R410A, here's what you need to know: R452B: the same capacity as R410A, with slightly better efficiency. R454B: slightly lower capacity than R410A but better efficiency; lower
Specifically, R-454B typically offers better COP, but based on our recent performance testing, there are scenarios in which its capacity is less than R-410A.
New systems using R-454B refrigerant are more energy efficient, reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the use of electricity, and the refrigerant itself has lower GWP. R-454B has no ozone depletion potential (ODP) and has low toxicity.
ACHR NEWS: As a mildly flammable refrigerant, R-454B can't be retrofitted into existing R-22 and R-410A systems.
R32 has the advantage of being a singlecomponent refrigerant with higher energy efficiency and a smaller physical footprint. It's already in use globally, so you can be confident in its reliability. R454B, while newer, has the benefit of an even lower GWP, making it the more environmentally friendly option.
R-454B is NOT a drop-in replacement for R-410A. Although many of the characteristics of R-454B are similar to R-410A, the use of R-454B is restricted by code and regulation to systems for which it was specifically designed.
R410A or Puron
This eco-friendly refrigerant gives you a much higher cooling efficiency with very little power consumption.
Cooling systems shifting from R-410a to newer refrigerants like R-454B refrigerant and R-32 refrigerant will be implemented in 2025. These new coolants are engineered to be friendlier to the environment and meet updated regulations about global warming.
The limited supply and more complex manufacturing process of R454B compared to its predecessor R410A contribute to its higher cost.
Beginning in late 2024, R454B will replace R410A in all newly manufactured HVAC systems to meet these environmental goals. This change is in line with the EPA's SNAP (Significant New Alternatives Policy) program, which ensures that the alternatives meet both environmental and safety standards.
Safety Precautions: Ensure proper ventilation in the working area, as R454B is classified as mildly flammable. Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety glasses, gloves, and a face mask.
Understanding the Current HVAC Refrigerant Guidelines
Most HVAC brands have started to swap out their older AC and heat pump units over the year, preparing for the 2025 deadline, when they will have to completely stop the production of systems with R-410A.
Trane (and much of the residential HVAC industry) has chosen to move forward with R-454B, which has a reduced environmental impact when compared to previous refrigerants. In addition to having a lower GWP, R-454B has no ozone depletion potential (ODP).
Energy Efficiency: R-454B is known for its energy efficiency. This means that air conditioners using this refrigerant will likely be more efficient, potentially lowering your energy bills over time.
The replacements for R-410A are the two A2Ls, Forane® R-32 and R-454B. Forane® R-32 can be used in new equipment designed specifically for mildly flammable refrigerants as a replacement for R-410A equipment. Its low density allows for the use of a smaller refrigerant charge.
ComStar's RS-53 (R470A) is the world's only drop-in retrofit replacement for existing R410a systems. At 909, RS-53 has a GWP that is effectively 56% lower than R410a. Additionally, RS-51 (R470B) has a GWP of 717 which is 80% lower than R404a, R507 and half of R448A and R449A.
The most notable benefit of using R-454B is its compliance with the impending GWP limits we mentioned earlier. Also, from a performance standpoint, it features a similar coefficient of performance (COP) to its predecessor, R-410A, and can even be slightly better in some instances.
Right now the globally accepted direct GWP threshold by HVAC system designers and building consultants is 750. R32's direct GWP exceeds this threshold, and is 45% higher than R454B's, making R454B the more sustainable choice. The lower the GWP, the better.
Exposure hazards: Flammable. In combustion emits toxic fumes. Forms explosive air-vapour mixture. Advice for fire-fighters: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus.
The Lennox choices for 2025 Compliant Refrigerant R-454B for whole-home systems and R-32 for mini-splits, both have a lower GWP than the previous refrigerant and are formulated to provide excellent, reliable performance of your system for years to come.
Regulatory Changes: As the phase-out continues to restrict production levels and importation, the R-410A price will likely increase. Manufacturing Costs: Fluctuations in the cost of raw materials and manufacturing can also influence the price of refrigerants.
The pressure can become high enough for parts of the system to rupture. At the very least, leaks will occur.
In most cases, R32 is the superior refrigerant when compared to R410A. While neither refrigerant depletes the ozone layer, R32 has a lower GWP and is easier to recycle. R32 also has lower operating and maintenance costs and is nowadays more common than R410A due to the phase-out.
The Phaseout of R22 Refrigerant
By January 1, 2030, the government will ban all production and import of HCFCs, including R-22.
Although there are various types of refrigerants, R-32 is a balanced refrigerant currently receiving attention. Because R-32 efficiently conveys heat, it can reduce electricity consumption up to approximately 10% compared to that of air conditioners using refrigerant R-22.