New Refrigerant 2025: What It Means for Your HVAC System

The HVAC industry has officially entered a new chapter with the New Refrigerant 2025 changes now in effect. This shift marks the end of R-410A’s dominance and ushers in eco-friendlier refrigerants like R-32 and R-454B. But what does this mean for your HVAC system?

Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, understanding these changes can help you make informed decisions about maintaining or upgrading your system.

Why the Change?

The change to new refrigerants is driven by global initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Older refrigerants like R-410A have high Global Warming Potential (GWP) ratings, making them less eco-friendly.

Beginning in 2025, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandates the use of refrigerants with lower GWP, such as R-32 and R-454B. These refrigerants are designed to minimize environmental impact while improving energy efficiency in HVAC systems.

Key Benefits of the New Refrigerants:

• Reduced GWP for a smaller environmental footprint.
• Increased energy efficiency, which translates to lower utility bills.
• Improved cooling performance in modern HVAC systems.

Types of Refrigerants: R-410A, R-454B, R-32, and A2L

Let’s explore the refrigerants you’ll encounter in the HVAC market:

1. R-410A (Puron):

• Widely used in HVAC systems before 2025.
• High GWP rating, leading to its phase-out.

2. R-454B (Puron Advance):

• A popular replacement for R-410A with a GWP that’s up to 75% lower.
• Compatible with many modern HVAC systems.

3. R-32:

• Another low-GWP refrigerant offering higher energy efficiency.
• Great for residential and light commercial systems.

4. A2L Refrigerants:

• A category that includes both R-32 and R-454B.
• Slightly flammable but designed for safe use in HVAC applications.

These refrigerants represent the future of HVAC, combining environmental sustainability with enhanced performance.

Puron vs. Puron Advance

Puron, or R-410A, has been a reliable refrigerant in HVAC systems for years. However, its high GWP has prompted the transition to more eco-friendly options like Puron Advance (R-454B).

• Why Is Puron Being Replaced?
  While Puron has served HVAC systems well, its environmental impact is significant when compared to alternatives. The transition to Puron Advance reflects a commitment to sustainability and reduced emissions.
• What Are the Benefits of Puron Advance?
  • Substantially lower GWP than R-410A.
  • Improved energy efficiency for HVAC systems.
  • Reduces greenhouse gas emissions without compromising cooling performance.

If your system uses Puron, it will still function, but maintenance costs may increase as the refrigerant becomes less available.

The Impact on Your Current Air Conditioner Unit

If your air conditioner was manufactured before 2025, chances are it uses R-410A. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Availability of R-410A: While still available for maintenance, R-410A’s production will phase out, leading to higher costs over time.
2. System Compatibility: Older systems designed for R-410A cannot simply switch to R-454B or R-32 without significant modifications.
3. Efficiency and Longevity: Systems using older refrigerants may become less efficient compared to new models designed for the latest refrigerants.

Pro Tip: Schedule an HVAC inspection to assess your system’s refrigerant and overall performance. Learn more about HVAC inspections here.

Do You Need to Upgrade Your HVAC System?

The decision to upgrade depends on your system’s age, performance, and maintenance history.

Consider Upgrading If:

• Your system is over 10 years old: New HVAC systems with R-454B or R-32 are more energy-efficient, helping you save on utility bills.
• You’re facing rising repair costs: As R-410A becomes scarcer, the cost of servicing older systems will likely increase.
• You want to reduce your environmental impact: Upgrading to a low-GWP refrigerant system contributes to a greener future.

If you’re unsure, a preventive maintenance plan can help you extend the life of your current system while you plan for an upgrade. Learn about our maintenance plans here.

Steps to Take in 2025 and Beyond

Here’s what you can do now to prepare for the refrigerant transition:

1. Schedule an Inspection: Ensure your current system is running efficiently and determine if an upgrade is needed.
2. Invest in Maintenance: Regular maintenance can prevent costly breakdowns and improve efficiency.
3. Install a New System: If your system is outdated, let us know and we can get you set up with HVAC units compatible with R-454B or R-32.

Contact Wilson’s Refrigeration & Air for expert advice on maintaining or upgrading your HVAC system.

Embracing the Future of HVAC

The New Refrigerant 2025 changes are an opportunity to embrace eco-friendly technologies and improve your HVAC system’s performance. Whether you’re maintaining your current system or considering an upgrade, Wilson’s Refrigeration & Air is here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today to schedule a service or learn more about how the refrigerant changes will impact your home.