Unfortunately, recent studies have shown that this refrigerant contains high levels of a chemical known to cause global warming. To deal with this, in September 2021 the EPA released its specific strategy to majorly limit R-410A consumption. The strategy requires the use of A2L, a class of new refrigerants.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
In fact, one kilogram of refrigerant R410a has the same greenhouse impact as 2 tonnes of carbon dioxide, which is the equivalent of running your car for 6 months.
The pressure can become high enough for parts of the system to rupture. At the very least, leaks will occur.
While R32 and R410A are similar in many ways, they're incompatible with systems that aren't designed for them. For example, both refrigerant types are hydrofluorocarbons, which means they are more efficient and environmentally friendly than hydrochlorofluorocarbons like R22, also known as Freon.
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 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.
There are regulations coming in 2023 that restrict the sale of R-410A, but it is currently legal to sell and purchase this refrigerant.
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.
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.
With an ODP of 0, the two gases are also equally harmless to the ozone layer. Still, R32 has a GWP of 675, which is significantly lower than those of R22 and R410A. That makes it a seemingly better alternative.
Ammonia gives an unpalatable flavor to food. SO2 kills flowers and is a dying agent for textiles. Refrigerants have been assigned toxicity grades 1-6 by the National Board of Underwrites of the USA. SO2 is the most toxic.
RS-53 (R470A) is a new non-flammable Drop-in replacement for R410A with a low Global Warming Potential (GWP) less than half that of R410A.
An environmentally more benign refrigerant for replacing refrigerant R410A includes a majority portion of refrigerant R32 and a minority portion of refrigerant R134a, the volumetric capacity of the replacement refrigerant permitting it to be used as a near or exact drop-in replacement for refrigerant R410A in terms of ...
R-32 is the most balanced refrigerant in terms of environmental impact, energy efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Refrigerant is a medium for conveying heat.
The 2025 refrigerant transition refers to the new regulations requiring the use of more environmentally friendly refrigerants in HVAC systems. The aim is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and ozone depletion.
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.
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.