R-410A: Upcoming HVAC Refrigerant and System Changes

Big changes are coming to the HVAC industry, but will they affect the way you heat and cool your home? To find out, let’s break down the upcoming R-410A refrigerant phase-out and what it means for homeowners here in Joshua, TX.

A No-Nonsense Guide to HVAC Refrigerants

Depending on their age, air conditioners and heat pumps may use several types of refrigerants. Most units manufactured before 2010 use R-22. Because of its ozone-depleting properties, however, R-22 was banned by the Environmental Protection Agency in January 2020. It was primarily replaced by R-410A, which is still widely used today. Unfortunately, that’s set to change once again. As of January 1, 2025, R-410A and related refrigerants will be banned for use in most new HVAC installations.

What the Refrigerant Phase-Out Means for You

It’s important to note that these changes will not affect any systems installed prior to the January 2025 deadline. At least not directly. Technicians may still service R-410A systems as normal, including using compatible parts to complete maintenance and AC repairs. However, only refrigerant reclaimed from existing sources will be available. This will likely decrease the supply of refrigerant over time, eventually resulting in higher service costs.

Is Now the Time To Upgrade Your HVAC System?

While there’s no immediate need to replace your R-22 or R-410A equipment, upgrading early may still be a smart move. There are already systems available that are designed to use new, industry-approved refrigerants, including R-32 and R-454B. Not only are these refrigerants more environmentally friendly, but they may also be more efficient and cost-effective. Upgrading your equipment may also save you money on maintenance and repairs as the cost of older refrigerants increases.

Want to get ahead of the R-410A phase-out and future-proof your North Texas home? NexGen Heating & Air Conditioning has everything you need, including expert air conditioning installations featuring state-of-the-art Trane HVAC systems.