Transitioning Away from Your AC’s R-410A Refrigerant and Its Impact on AC Services in the U.S.
The HVAC industry is starting to undergo a big shifting to, transitioning to new HVAC refrigerants mandated by the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020. The goal is for the cooling sector to slowly replace the current class of refrigerants while also setting up new guidelines for the refrigerants used in the design of central AC units and heat pumps. The new class of refrigerants has a smaller environmental impact compared to the ones currently in use.
As you can guess, this will significantly change how HVACsystems are marketed and serviced. But will your current AC unit be impacted? The total home comfort Experts at (866) 963-7996 can provide more details. We’ll offer details about why the AC Refrigerant R-410A is being replaced and how it could impact you.
For more details, read or download our full information packet!
Understanding the Current HVAC Refrigerant Guidelines
This summer, 2024, will be crucial to this transition. R-410A production has already been cut by 40%, causing upward pressure on the cost of both servicing current AC systems and installing new AC systems. Most HVAC brands have started to swap out their older AC and heat pump units over the year, preparing for the 2025 deadline, when they will have to completely stop the production of systems with R-410A.
As of January 2025, all new AC systems and heat pumps will have to be designed with the next generation of A2L-class coolants in mind. Servicing for older and current R410a AC systems will still be possible, but eventually, the supply of refrigerant will become scarce and its price will rise. But that poses the question: Why IS R-410A getting the boot?
Why Is R-410A Being Phased Out?
R-410A is far and away the most common Refrigerant, having been used for decades as the standard for conventional AC systems. 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 different class of new refrigerants.
This isn’t the first time the sector has needed to adapt to evolving environmental regulations. Most AC systems used to use R-22 refrigerant before it was first swapped out itself by R-410A. Sound complicated? Well, it is. The cycle continues as our government try its best to reduce the impact these substances have on our environment.
The newest class of A2L refrigerants are, like past refrigerants, non-toxic. There is one major difference, however. The new A2L refrigerants are slightly flammable. However, the average homeowner has no cause for concern as new systems using A2L have been designed with the utmost safety in mind.
What Type of Refrigerant Does My Air Conditioner Use?
To find out the type of refrigerant your AC unit has, try looking at the sticker on the outdoor unit or for the info in your owner's manual. This label typically lists the type of refrigerant, along with other vital information like model number and other details. If you can’t locate the information you are looking for, don’t hesitate to call the Experts at (866) 963-7996. They can help you figure out your AC's refrigerant as well as its age.
R410a: R410a is the most common choice in modern AC units. If your air conditioner was put in after 2010, there’s a high likelihood it contains R410a. Look for a tag or sticker on the outdoor unit that says “R410a”.
R-32: R-32 is another modern A2L-class refrigerant, chosen for a lower environmental impact.
R-22: R-22 was the usual choice for decades, but it’s already been Phased Out due to its damage to the ozone layer. If your AC is more than 15 years old, it may still run on R-22.
R134a: R134a is rarely found in home AC units, and is more frequent in automotive air conditioning.
If your AC unit was set up in 2010 or before…
You are more likely to have an air conditioner that still uses R-22 refrigerant. Servicing or repairing R-22 systems will be costlier as replacement refrigerant becomes scare. Anyone with old R-22 systems will need to consider replacing it with one that’s more efficient and environmentally-friendly. It’s still possible to replace an R-22 AC unit with one using R-410a, but you should realize that the supply of R-410A is starting to deplete. You can also replace the older unit with a brand-new A2L-based system, and you have Expert local resources from (866) 963-7996 to help you navigate this annoying home comfort headache.
If your AC unit was set up after 2010…
You most likely have a system that uses R410a. You won't need to take immediate action, but don't forget that as R410a refrigerant runs low, service expenses for these units will get higher and higher.
Selecting the Best Refrigerant with Support from Service Experts
By thoughtfully choosing your new or replacement AC unit or heat pump, you can ensure you get the most energy-efficient air conditioning for your home. The total home comfort Experts at Service Experts can help you find the perfect system for your home, so book an appointment today.
