The new EPA refrigerant regulations for 2025 will phase out the use of high-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants like R-410A, replacing them with more eco-friendly alternatives, such as
Starting in 2025, the HVAC industry will shift toward using refrigerants with a lower GWP. Among the most discussed replacements are R-32 and R-454B.
Understanding the 2025 Efficiency Ratings
The key changes are: SEER2: The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating, which measures cooling efficiency, is evolving into SEER2 with higher efficiency requirements. Cooling systems must score at least a SEER2 rating of 15 in most regions.
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.
Heat Pumps are Eligible for Incentives in 2025
Heat pump rebates and tax credits are a big reason why heat pumps are worth it in California. There are several incentives for heat pump installation in California in 2025.
If your system is nearing the end of its life, replacing it before 2025 could be a smart move to avoid higher prices later. Rising Repair Costs: If your system requires frequent repairs or uses R-22 refrigerant, which is already phased out, you might be better off replacing it now.
Not suitable for every home
If your home is poorly insulated and your budget is limited, start with insulation and forget heat pumps for the moment. In doing so, even your old heating will give you some satisfaction by consuming less.
Yes. While 2025 compliant refrigerants have an A2L classification of mildly flammable, it poses no greater risk than common household products. In fact, there is a good chance that you are already using these refrigerants in newer cars and portable air conditioners and heat pumps.
When Will R-410A Be Phased Out Completely? The complete phase-out of R-410A will likely occur by 2036, when HFC consumption is expected to be reduced by 85%. However, businesses should prepare well in advance, as the restrictions beginning in 2025 will already limit its use significantly.
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.
On January 1, 2020, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned the production and import of R-22. But units manufactured in 2009 and earlier still use R-22 today. Its use will eventually be eliminated in the U.S., so all current and future homeowners must be prepared for the transition.
Starting January 1, 2025, all new residential air conditioners and heat pumps must utilize A2L refrigerants. Older refrigerants like R-410, which are likely the refrigerant used by your current system, are being phased out. These new systems are designed to have a lower global warming potential (GWP).
What products are eligible? Effective January 1, 2025, split system central air conditioners must meet SEER2 ≥ 17.0 and EER2 ≥12.0 to be eligible. Packaged central air conditioners must meet SEER2 ≥16.0 and EER2 ≥11.5 to be eligible.
The new EPA refrigerant regulations for 2025 will phase out the use of high-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants like R-410A, replacing them with more eco-friendly alternatives, such as R-454B and R-32.
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.
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.
The EPA has allowed installation of R-410A Systems through 2025 if both the indoor and outdoor units were manufactured before January 1, 2025. R-410A Components: A Component is one unit of a system that is installed for repair. Installation Stop Date: There is no limitation on installing R-410A Components.
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.
Changes to the Dangerous Goods Legislation, effective in 2021, has new categories for A2L refrigerants. R32 is a synthetic greenhouse gas. If released to the atmosphere it can contribute to climate change. R32 is a flammable refrigerant.
R-454B. R-454B is the newest refrigerant, which will gradually replace R-410A, the refrigerant used in HVAC manufacturing from 2010 until the phase-out is complete in January 2025.
CFCs and HCFCs are the most harmful because they contain chlorine. These refrigerants are also relatively stable, meaning they don't get destroyed easily by rain or sunlight. This makes it more likely that they will reach the stratosphere, where the ozone layer is.
The commonly used synthetic refrigerants such as R134a, R407C and R410A have a GWP value higher than 2,500. As a result, their production is being phased out.
Contractors avoid deploying more heat pumps because of money. I'm told they are too expensive to sell, when a furnace is another, cheaper solution. Additionally, the incentives are diverse in their scope and in some cases daunting to navigate for both contractors and customers.
But heat pumps work to cool homes, too, and are capable of working in hot weather, just like an air conditioner. According to the Department of Energy, heat pumps work as well at conditioning an equivalent-sized space as an air conditioner but they dehumidify better and work more efficiently.
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.