In 2025, a significant change is coming to the HVAC industry, and it’s something every homeowner and business owner should be aware of. The federal government, in collaboration with environmental agencies and the HVAC industry, is making a major shift in the types of refrigerants used in air conditioning and refrigeration systems. This move is part of an effort to reduce environmental impacts and promote more sustainable practices. So, what does this mean for you, your HVAC system, and your wallet? Let’s break it down.
Why the Change?
For years, many HVAC systems have relied on refrigerants like R-410A, R-22, and other hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) to cool our homes and businesses. However, these refrigerants have been shown to contribute to climate change by releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. R-22, for example, was phased out starting in 2010 because of its ozone-depleting properties, while R-410A is being targeted for its high global warming potential (GWP).
As part of global agreements like the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, the U.S. government has committed to reducing HFC usage, driving the HVAC industry to develop and adopt more environmentally friendly refrigerants. Starting in 2025, new HVAC systems will need to use low-GWP refrigerants, which will have less impact on the climate.
What Are the New Refrigerants?
The most likely replacements for R-410A and other high-GWP refrigerants are blends like R-32 and R-454B. These newer refrigerants have a much lower GWP, making them far less harmful to the environment. For instance, R-32 has a GWP that is about one-third that of R-410A, and R-454B has an even lower GWP, making both strong candidates for future HVAC systems.
How Does This Affect Your Current System?
If you have an existing HVAC system that uses R-410A or an older refrigerant like R-22, you might be wondering if this change means you need to replace your system immediately. The good news is that this isn’t the case. Your existing system can continue to operate as usual, but if your refrigerant needs to be recharged, you may find that the costs for the older refrigerants will rise, as production will be reduced and eventually phased out.
However, when it’s time to replace your system—either because of age or efficiency concerns—you will likely need to upgrade to a system that uses one of the new, low-GWP refrigerants.
What Should You Do Now?
Here’s how you can prepare for the upcoming changes:
- Maintenance Is Key: Keeping your current HVAC system in good shape with regular maintenance will help extend its life, reducing the need for refrigerant recharges.
- Consult a Professional: When it’s time to replace your system, work with a certified HVAC technician to ensure you’re choosing a system that meets the 2025 standards. They can help you weigh the costs and benefits of upgrading to the latest technology.
- Consider Energy Efficiency: The new refrigerants often come paired with more energy-efficient HVAC models, which can save you money on your energy bills in the long run. It may also make you eligible for tax credits and rebates.
Conclusion
The 2025 refrigerant change represents a positive step towards reducing the environmental impact of our HVAC systems. While there may be some adjustments, like higher costs for older refrigerants and the need to upgrade to new systems, the benefits of a more sustainable and efficient cooling technology will outweigh the inconveniences. Be proactive by maintaining your current system and preparing for a future upgrade to take advantage of these environmental and financial benefits.
If you have any questions about how the refrigerant change will impact your HVAC system or are looking to upgrade your current setup, feel free to reach out to Davis Air Conditioning! Our team is here to help guide you through these changes with expert advice and service.