Starting in 2023, new HVAC systems will no longer use R-410A. These systems will also be subject to new energy efficiency standards.
Yes, R-410A will still be available for maintenance and repairs for many years. R-410A won't actually be phased out of production until the 2040s. Also, contractors can still reclaim and reuse refrigerant from older systems.
In December 2022, the EPA unveiled a refrigerant ban that will go into effect between 2025 and 2026 (depending on the industry). The result? R-410A is out, shaking up the HVACR industry, which relies heavily on this refrigerant.
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.
Why R-410A Is Being Phased Out. Because R-410A operates at such high pressures, there is an increased risk of an environmentally harmful refrigerant leak during maintenance and repair work. The R-410A phase-out means new HVAC systems will use more sustainable refrigerants.
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.
You can continue to use and service your existing system. The new regulations apply only to newly manufactured equipment starting in 2025. However, if your system is nearing the end of its life, it would be worth considering an upgrade to avoid higher costs in the future.
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.
R-454B is the new refrigerant in 2024. By 2025, the EPA's required phaseout of R-410A will be in full effect, with production, importation, and distribution no longer allowed. HVACR businesses must be evaluating their current choices in coolant and ready to make the jump.
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.
By phasing out R-410A refrigerant over the next decade, the EPA intends to shift to the use of alternative refrigerants. The new refrigerants, part of the A2L family, must be used in any HVAC system manufactured after January 1, 2025. New equipment will utilize either R-454B or R-32.
The pressure can become high enough for parts of the system to rupture. At the very least, leaks will occur. Mixing refrigerants is not an option either. This will contaminate the system, and the R22 will not evaporate under the higher suction pressure that R410A requires.
It's official! Air conditioner and heat pump manufacturers are rolling out new refrigerants to comply with EPA guidelines. Starting in January 2025, no new HVAC systems will use R-410A refrigerant.
The new refrigerant changes in 2025 are part of a larger effort to make air conditioning systems more environmentally friendly, while still keeping homes comfortable. These changes are being driven by regulations to phase out older refrigerants like R-410A, which have a high global warming potential (GWP).
R32 is not suitable as a drop-in replacement for R410A and must only be used in systems specifically designed for R32.
In fact, R-410A will continue to be produced until 2040. However, as its availability decreases, you can expect the price of R-410A refrigerant to rise by 20-25%. This means you'll be paying more and more for maintenance and repairs of your aging AC unit.
Although R-410A remains available at current, it's clear that will only be the case for a short while, perhaps until as early as 2024.
Should I wait until 2024 to buy a heat pump? It's not necessary to wait until 2024 to buy a heat pump. The California heat pump rebate program is currently available, offering financial incentives for homeowners who install energy-efficient heat pump systems.
No. 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.
According to Energy Star, you should consider replacing your air conditioner if it is more than 10 years old, and you should seriously consider replacing the air conditioner if it's more than 15 years old—as this is the average lifespan of most cooling devices.
R-410 refrigerant costs $60 per pound on average, but can range from $40 to $75. Keep in mind you cannot purchase R-410A refrigerant without an HVAC pro. As of mid-2024, R-410A refrigerant prices range from $40 to $75 per pound.
In new chiller production, HFC refrigerants like R-404A and R-410A are prohibited from 1st January 2024. The production of new equipment using R-22 ceased entirely in 2022, and the HCFC phaseout will be completed in 2030.
Several HVAC manufacturers have officially declared upcoming price hikes for 2024, garnering attention as a new wave of increases takes effect. There is a noticeable industry-wide trend of manufacturers elevating the prices of equipment, parts, and supplies.
How much does a new HVAC system cost for a 2,000 sq. ft. home? The costs range from $6,224 to $11,434, depending on the system type and installation requirements. Key factors include system size, type, efficiency, and local labor rates.