As we head into 2025, there’s a change brewing in the world of air conditioning. Beginning January 1, 2025, R-410A systems will no longer be sold or installed. R-410A, the long-standing refrigerant keeping our homes cool, is being phased out due to its impact on the environment and a newer, and much better option for our environment will be taking its place.
Here’s what you need to know about the why, the what, and how it will affect you.
Why the Change
While R-410A served us well by replacing ozone-damaging refrigerants like R-22, it has a higher Global Warming Potential (GWP) than what’s considered sustainable in the long run. GWP measures a gas’s ability to trap heat compared to carbon dioxide (CO2) over a 100-year period. R-410A’s GWP of 2088 falls above anticipated future limits. That’s why the industry is transitioning to the new refrigerant R-454B.
What is R-454B
R-454B is a blend of R-32 and R-1234yf and boasts a significantly lower GWP of 465, easily meeting not only upcoming 2025 regulations but also anticipated stricter requirements well into the 2030s.
There are misconceptions regarding R-454B’s flammability. While classified as “mildly flammable,” it’s similar to olive oil and not prone to explosions. However, this classification does require leak detectors in new systems, potentially increasing the overall cost.
Impact on Homeowners
While it is proven that R-454B is the best option for improving and protecting our environment, what does this change mean financially for homeowners?
Expect a higher upfront cost for new R-454B systems, potentially 10-25% more than current R-410A models. The refrigerant itself will also be more expensive but will require less to get the job done. And due to the complexity of the systems, there are more points of failure which means more repairs.
In terms of efficiency, R-454B performs similarly to R-410A, with a Coefficient of Performance (COP) that’s often comparable or even slightly better. However, there’s a catch: While both refrigerants use similar amounts of energy to run, R-454B may require a slightly larger system size to achieve the same cooling capacity as R-410A. This means an R-454B system might need to work a little harder to keep your space at your desired temperature compared to an R-410A system.
Making the Right Choice
The phaseout of R-410A presents homeowners with a decision, particularly if their current HVAC system is nearing the end of its lifespan. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide what your best option is:
- Older Systems (10-15+ years old): If you have an older, less efficient system that will need to be replaced in the next 2-5 years, we recommend upgrading sooner rather than later. New R-410A systems installed in 2024 will be covered by a 10 year warranty and the cost to repair them won’t likely be cost prohibitive until much later in their life. Combine that with the overall lower cost of the system and you could save $1200 or more by upgrading in 2024.
- Newer Systems (less than 10 years old): If your R-410A system is relatively new and functioning well, prioritize regular maintenance to extend its lifespan. There’s no need to rush into a replacement before 2025. You’ll have time to assess advancements in R-454B technology and pricing in the coming years.
Make the Best Choice for Your Future
Unless you fall into one extreme or the other with a brand new system or one you know is beyond its expiration date, you will no doubt need professional help determining your best option.
The team at Quigley has been trained and is prepared to answer all your questions about your system and the upcoming changes. By understanding your current system’s age and condition, we can help you make an informed decision that balances cost-effectiveness with environmental responsibility.
Contact us today to schedule a visit from a technician to talk about your options, including becoming a Q Club member. Your membership includes 2 free visits a year with an extensive multi-point system check, discounts and priority scheduling. With Quigley as your partner, you can rest easy knowing your comfort is in good hands for the years ahead.
