A New Refrigerant Is Coming: What You Need to Know

If you’ve considered replacing your air conditioner, now is the perfect time to act. Starting January 1, 2025, all new air conditioners must use a more environmentally friendly refrigerant known as A2L, which will come with increased costs. Here’s what you need to know about this change and how it affects you.

Why It Matters

The transition to new refrigerants is a significant step toward reducing environmental impact, but it also means higher installation and maintenance costs. This change is driven by the need to adopt more eco-friendly practices, which comes with challenges. New systems require advanced technology and specialized training for technicians, contributing to the increased costs. Additionally, these changes might affect the availability of parts and service options, making it crucial to stay updated on the latest information. Being well-informed and prepared can empower you to make the best home and budget decisions, giving you a sense of control in this transition. By understanding the benefits and potential drawbacks, you can plan effectively, ensuring that your home remains comfortable and efficient while contributing to a healthier planet.

What Should You Do?

If your air conditioner or heat pump is getting old or showing signs of wear, consider replacing it with an R410A system before the end of 2024. This decision can save you substantial money in the long run. R410A systems are currently more affordable than the upcoming new refrigerant systems, which will be 20%-30% more expensive due to increased training, testing, and equipment costs. Installing an R410A system now means you can avoid these higher costs and benefit from a reliable, efficient system that can be maintained for many years, even with the new refrigerant switch. You will control the narrative rather than the narrative controlling you. 

Regular maintenance will ensure that your R410A system lasts a long time, providing consistent performance and comfort for your home. Technicians will continue to be trained and equipped to service R410A systems, so you won’t have to worry about the availability of maintenance and repair services. By making this proactive choice, you secure an efficient, cost-effective cooling solution that meets your needs and keeps your home comfortable.

If your current cooling system is new and uses the old R22 refrigerant or R410A, which have been common for many years, it is still very safe for home use. While R410A is slightly more harmful to the environment than the new refrigerants, the old refrigerant will be available for many years if you need to add refrigerant to your system. No action is necessary, as your cooling system should run well with regular maintenance.

Why You Should Care

Starting January 1, 2025, manufacturers will switch to new refrigerants, R454B or R32, which are better for the environment. This change is a big step toward a greener future.

However, it’s not just about being eco-friendly. The new refrigerants and the systems designed to use them will be more expensive, which means higher costs for new installations and maintenance. By replacing your old system with an R410A system, you can ensure your home stays comfortable without breaking the bank. Acting now will also give you peace of mind, knowing your system can be maintained for years. 

Key Points to Remember

• Existing Systems: You don’t need to replace your current R410A or R22 system immediately. Rest assured, R410A will still be available for existing units, providing you with a sense of security about your current system.
• Cost Impact: New systems will be 20%-30% more expensive due to redesign and new equipment requirements.
• Environmental Impact: The 2025 changes are designed to be more environmentally friendly.
• Availability: R410A equipment can still be installed until January 1, 2026.

For more information, visit the EPA website, where you can find additional resources and FAQs about the upcoming changes.

Ready to upgrade your system? Call us at (801) 218-2187 or visit westernheatingair.com to schedule your consultation today!