What is used now instead of Freon?

Author: Okey Davis Jr.  |  Last update: Friday, May 30, 2025

As Freon was phased out, new HVAC systems began using a refrigerant known as Puron® or R-410A, an HFC. More efficient and less harmful to the environment, R-410A has been in use since its introduction in 1996 and is found in most of today's modern HVAC systems.

What is the new alternative to Freon?

While we still service HVAC equipment using Freon, most residential HVAC units are now using Puron® or R-410A, a type of hydrocarbon refrigerant without the chlorine. The reason for the switch was to reduce the impact that the gasses have on the ozone layer and the environment.

What is Freon gas now replaced by?

1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane (R-134a or HFC-134a), one of the main replacements for the formerly widespread R-12. Opteon halogenated olefins now replacing Freons in many applications.

What do cars use now instead of Freon?

The first type is R-134a, which replaced the refrigerant commonly known as “freon.” The other is R-1234yf, which is an even more environmentally friendly refrigerant than R-134a. Finding out which refrigerant your vehicle uses is easy with the help of A/C Pro®.

What is replacing Freon?

R-32 is another refrigerant gaining popularity as a replacement for Freon. It has a lower GWP than R-410A, making it a better choice for the environment. R-32 is also highly efficient, which means it can reduce energy consumption and help lower utility costs.

What is refrigerant? | Animation | HVAC | Refrigeration

What can I use instead of Freon?

As Freon was phased out, new HVAC systems began using a refrigerant known as Puron® or R-410A, an HFC. More efficient and less harmful to the environment, R-410A has been in use since its introduction in 1996 and is found in most of today's modern HVAC systems.

What is the new Freon called?

R-454B is the newest refrigerant, which will gradually replace R-410A, the refrigerant used in current HVAC manufacturing. R-454B is a blend of R-32, a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC), and R-1234yf a hydrofluoroolefin (HFO).

Will AutoZone recharge my AC?

An AC leak will lead to warmer air from your vents over time. In most cases this can be fixed with a proven stop leak additive to seal up any leaks. When it's time for an AC recharge, turn to AutoZone.

Why was R134a banned?

Why Is R-134A Being Phased Out? When Is the Phaseout Expected to Conclude? Like a lot of '90s relics, R-134A has not aged well. It was known then that 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane could potentially contribute to acid rain and that its ozone layer depletion potential was high.

What is better than Freon?

In general, Puron systems are more energy efficient than Freon systems. This energy efficiency not only proves good for the environment, it also means homeowners pay less in utility bills. More environmentally friendly. The main draw of Puron is that it is more environmentally friendly than Freon.

What is the new automotive refrigerant?

Type #2: R1234yf -- The New Hotness

It is refrigerant, after all. R1234yf was chosen to replace R134a in all new cars by 2021. Some manufacturers have already made the switch, or the switch is in progress.

What is a replacement for Freon 22?

Freon MO99 is the gold standard for R-22 alternatives and was developed by the same scientists who engineered Freon R-22. The benefits of Freon MO99 include: Capacity — The ability of Freon MO99 to heat or cool a given space is closer to Freon R-22 than any other refrigerant on the market.

What is the new Freon in 2024?

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.

What will R-134a be replaced with?

A High-Performing Alternative to R-134a

Opteon™ XL10 (R-1234yf) refrigerant is a non-ozone depleting (ODP) hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) option that meets the industry's growing demands for sustainable, safe, and effective solutions.

Can you replace Freon with something else?

There are three main Freon replacement alternatives out there: R-410A: This non-ozone depleting refrigerant provides better energy efficiency than some of the other alternatives and does not use chlorine.

What refrigerant will be used in 2025?

What refrigerant will replace R-410A in 2025? For whole-home systems, Lennox has chosen 2025 Compliant Refrigerant R-454B due to its excellent performance for ducted systems and zero ozone depletion potential. For mini-splits, we selected R-32, designed to optimize efficiency and reliability in ductless systems.

Can I use 1234yf instead of 134a?

While R-1234yf could be the perfect replacement for R-134a, there is one major challenge with this new technology. The R-1234yf is much more reactive than R-134a. On the positive side, this higher reactivity is why R-1234yf is so much more friendly to the environment.

Can I put R134a in a R22 system?

No, the compressor will fail. These two refrigerants have very different properties. One of R22 and R134a is high pressure and the other is low pressure. They don't mix chemically and don't have the same boiling point, leading to inefficiencies and eventual compressor failure.

Is R-12 still available?

Limited quantities of reclaimed R-12 is still available for service of installed equipment. A wide variety of R-12 retrofit blends are available.

Will Jiffy Lube put Freon in my car?

If all that's needed is to have your system charged, the team at Jiffy Lube® can perform this service for you. They will remove the old refrigerant, vacuum test the system, and recharge your air conditioner with the right refrigerant.

What is the average cost to recharge an AC unit?

Most homeowners will pay in the range of $200 to $400 for a refill, depending on the type and size of their HVAC unit. If you own a larger r22 unit, you may have to spend $600 or more. To break this down for you, a 25lbs unit of r410A costs anything between $100 and $175.

How to check if Freon is low in a car?

How to Tell if Your Car A/C Needs Recharging
  1. Your car is blowing warm or hot air instead of cold. ...
  2. Your car is visibly leaking refrigerant. ...
  3. The A/C clutch is not engaging. ...
  4. There's a weird smell coming from your vents.

What is Freon replaced with?

R-407C is often used as a replacement for Freon. It has similar thermodynamic properties and is a popular choice for manufacturing new machines.

Will AC units be more expensive in 2025?

Yes – universally, new air conditioners and installation will be noticeably more expensive in 2025. You will save significant dollars by buying and installing now.

What is 1234y?

1234YF (also known as R-1234yf) is a type of refrigerant used in newer air conditioning systems, especially in cars. It's designed to replace older refrigerants like R-134a because it's more environmentally friendly.

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