R-454B Refrigerant Transition Guide For Homeowners

In December 2020, The American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act gave the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the authority to phase down the production and use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). This legislation requires HVAC manufactures to transition to the next level of low-GWP (global warming potential) refrigerants for all new residential HVAC systems manufactured starting on January 1, 2025. Homeowners that purchase new HVAC systems manufactured after January 1st will be required to purchase newly redesigned equipment containing the low-GWP refrigerant R-454B.

Moving To Low-GWP Refrigerant R-454B

In 2010 the HVAC industry transitioned from R-22 (an ozone-depleting hydrochlorofluorocarbon refrigerant or HCFC) to R-410A which is a hydrofluorocarbon refrigerant or HFC refrigerant.

The next step in reducing HFCs is the transition to low-GWP refrigerants which are also referred to as “A2L refrigerants”. A2L refrigerants are not new to the industry. They are currently used in smaller equipment you may have around your home like a room air conditioner for a workshop or window air conditioning unit in an apartment over your garage. These refrigerants will now be allowed to be used in larger units, like the HVAC system you have installed in your home. The A2L refrigerant that will be used in residential equipment is R-454B.

Benefits Of R-454B Refrigerant

Here are a few benefits of purchasing a new HVAC system with R-454B refrigerant:

Lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) R-454B has a significantly lower GWP (up to 78%) compared to R410A which makes it a more environmentally friendly option for homeowners.

Performance and Efficiency R-454B has similar characteristics to R410A which means continued energy savings and efficiency for homeowners.

Compliance With Regulations When homeowners purchase new equipment with R-454B refrigerant they are meeting the requirements set forth by the EPA to help reduce the use of HFCs.

Long-term viability R-454B has the lowest GWP with the best outlook for long-term viability and helps reduce the likelihood of future regulatory changes.

Frequently Asked Questions About R-454B

Am I required to upgrade my air conditioner to be compliant with the new regulations? No, you are allowed to keep your current air conditioner, no matter what refrigerant it uses, for the duration of its serviceable live even with the switch to R-454B.

Can I still purchase equipment that uses R410A after January 1, 2025? Yes, equipment manufactured prior to January 1, 2025, that uses R410A can still be purchased, but it must be installed by January 1, 2026, as a requirement of the AIM Act. However, many manufacturers started substantially scaling back their production of equipment using R410A in the summer of 2024 leading to equipment shortages as the year progressed so equipment availability may be limited as we approach the new year, and your only option may become the newer equipment with R-454B.

Can you still repair my older equipment? Yes, Central Carolina can continue to help you care for your existing equipment that uses R22 or R410A as well as the new equipment with R-454B.

Can you replace the refrigerant in my existing system with R-454B? Unfortunately, there is no way to retrofit existing systems for use with the new refrigerant.

Planning For System Replacement With R-454B

As a result of the AIM Act, HVAC manufacturers were required to redesign their equipment in order to use the new R-454B refrigerant. As a result, manufacturers are expected to increase the cost of the equipment starting January 1st by at least 15%.

If your system is over 10 years old and you are considering replacing soon, we recommend purchasing a new HVAC system with R-410A before the end of 2024. Here’s why:

1. Your HVAC equipment will cost you around 15% less than a similar model with the new R-454B refrigerant.
2. As we head into 2025 R-410A equipment will become more difficult to find until inventory is completely depleted.
3. You can still enjoy the benefits of a new system such as improved efficiency and reliability while having the peace of mind knowing that your system with R-410A will be able to be serviced for the duration of its expected serviceable life.

If your system is under 10 years old, and you are still pleased with the performance, it may not be necessary to make a change right now. To get the most out of your current HVAC system we recommend continuing with regular HVAC maintenance to ensure your system is working properly and efficiently. You may also want to consider signing up for Central Carolina’s Policy of Assurance program to help get the most out of your investment.

At Central Carolina we provide free equipment consultations. To request one today, simply fill out the form below and someone from our office will reach out to confirm your appointment.

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