The replacements for R-410A are the two A2Ls, Forane® R-32 and
RS-53 (R470A) has similar cooling capacity, energy efficiency, discharge pressure, discharge temperature and mass flow as R410A and consequently an excellent choice to replace R410A.
R410-a will be replaced by A2L refrigerants, which are a class of refrigerants that have higher efficiency and lower GWP (Global Warming Potential). The two foremost R410a replacements are R-32 and R-454B. R-32: Zero ozone depletion.
ComStar's RS-53 (R470A) is the world's only drop-in retrofit replacement for existing R410a systems.
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.
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.
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.
R-410A PHASE-DOWN TIMELINE
We will reach a 70% decrease by 2029. In 2034, we will see 80% less R-410A being produced than it is today, and the phase-down will end in 2036 with another 5% reduction.
No. R32 is not suitable as a drop-in replacement for R410A and must only be used in systems specifically designed for R32.
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.
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.
R-22 uses simple mineral oil, non-toxic, safe, stable, etc. while R-410a uses a somewhat exotic Poly o Ester (POE) oil typically found in jet turbine engines. The refrigerant used MUST match the oil present in the system, which is one reason why you can't replace the R-22 with R410a in a system.
The Benefit of Waiting
Next-generation refrigerants are more environmentally friendly which appeals to consumers who prefer eco-friendly options. By delaying your purchase, you'll know that your AC system meets future regulations and is more sustainable.
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).
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.
A small amount of R 22 left in a 410A system will not sludge the oil. This is because most POE oils are mixable (meaning they mix well) with any refrigerant even R 22.
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.
How much will an R-22 to R-410A conversion cost? The actual cost will depend on many things, including where you live, but most of the time R-22 conversions start at around $2,000 and go up from there. The higher end of that range is somewhere around $4,500 to $4,600.
The two gases are also different in terms of their volumetric cooling capacity. R410A has a high VCP, which requires larger pipes. Thus, it's not as efficient as R32, whose VCP is significantly lower. Moreover, R32 has a higher pressure ratio than R410A.
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.
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.
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.
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.
While every unit is different, and every homeowner has a different understanding of when their central air conditioner is broken beyond repair, it's fair to say that, with proper maintenance and care, you can expect a good 15 to 20 years of cooling from a new high efficiency air conditioning system.