Important Update on Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Systems
The U.S. Environmental Agency’s phasedown of high global warming potential (high-GWP) refrigerants continues and is having a major impact on the HVAC industry this year. The industry transitioned away from R-22 beginning in 2010 under the Montreal Protocol, at which point R-410A became the standard refrigerant used for comfort cooling. The American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act of 2020 directed the EPA to phase down the production and consumption of certain hydrofluorocarbons (HFC’s) including R-410A. Major manufacturers of comfort cooling and heat pump units have largely chosen to go with R-32 and R-454B although there are other low-GWP options, each manufacturer ultimately makes the decision of what refrigerant(s) to use based on a number of factors.
What’s Changing?
HVAC manufacturers were no longer able to manufacture 410A equipment after January 1, 2025 however there is a run through period that allows the installation of previously manufactured 410A equipment so long as it meets applicable codes and standards. There are a number of caveats however, for example it will no longer be legal to install new split systems that use R-410A after January 1, 2026. Also note that 410A is used for medium temperature applications such as comfort cooling; process chillers, refrigeration equipment, automotive air conditioning, and a number of other categories have their own phase down schedules which creates a complicated decision making matrix for each sector.https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2023-10/technology-transitions-final-rule-fact-sheet-2023.pdf
Things to Keep in Mind During the Transition:
- If you are planning to install or replace HVAC equipment for comfort cooling it will most likely R-32, R-454B, or a similar A2L refrigerant.
- A2L refrigerants are considered mildly flammable, requires specialized training and added safety features added in new equipment.
- While the EPA is driving the changes state code dictates what refrigerants are allowed along with required means and methods.
- Existing systems using R-410A can still be serviced and maintained, however cost and availability will become challenging over time.
- Refrigerant costs are rising due to the research, development, and manufacturing changes required to make the transition.
- The majority of refrigerants are imported and US tariffs are likely to have a significant impact on the cost of HVAC equipment.
- Having properly trained technicians ready to handle A2L refrigerants is critical.
We are here to help with the refrigerant and equipment transitions when needed, although many changes are in progress this will take years to play out.
