New Refrigerant Standards
– What They Mean For You –
New Refrigerant Standards Impacting HVAC
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates the types of refrigerants used in HVAC systems. Chances are that your current HVAC system uses a refrigerant that no longer meets EPA requirements.
If your system was manufactured before 2010, it likely was designed to use R-22 refrigerant, commonly known as Freon. Heating and cooling systems made after that were made to use R-410A, also known as Puron. R-410A refrigerant contains high levels of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), known to deplete the planet’s protective ozone layer.
As part of the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act of 2020, the EPA is requiring that you use more environmentally friendly refrigerants. Manufacturers have been phasing out production of HVAC units that use R-410A since 2020. As of January 1, 2025, no new systems will use R-410A (Puron).
What will be used in place of R-410A refrigerant beginning in 2025?
As of July 2022, the EPA is recommending A2L refrigerants (including R-32 and R-454B) as the best replacement for R-410A. These refrigerants can provide the same cooling abilities without the high greenhouse gas and HFC emissions, making them a suitable alternative for most systems.
SO HOW DOES THIS IMPACT YOU?
The new refrigerant requirements will significantly affect the cost of repairing and replacing HVAC systems. The new, more eco-friendly refrigerants are typically more expensive than R-410A was, which means the cost of new HVAC systems will increase.
If your system uses R-22:
This refrigerant is no longer being manufactured. Prices are soaring as the supply dwindles.
Parts for these older HVAC systems are also no longer readily available. Some are non-existent, and those that can be found are extremely expensive.
Between the lack of supply and high prices, the ability to repair these units is quickly disappearing.
If your system uses R-410A:
It is more important than ever to keep these units well-maintained to help them last longer.
You CANNOT put A2L refrigerants into a system that was built for R-410A.
The refrigerants are not compatible and you cannot retrofit an R-410A system. When your HVAC system dies, the only option is to install a new system.
How Goodco Can Help You
We know that HVAC repairs and replacement costs might not have been included in your budget. We’re offering several ways to help you save money:
We’re offering free evaluations. Contact us and we will assess the age and condition of your unit, and advise you on next steps. No obligation – we’re just being helpful.
Call 814.238.8180 or complete the form below to schedule a FREE evaluation or to talk with our experts.
We provide customized maintenance plans. The longer you can keep your current system running, the better it is for your bottom line. Preventive maintenance by our experienced techs helps extend the life of your HVAC.
We have financing options on new HVAC installations for businesses. Your heating and cooling system can be a significant investment, and we make it more affordable for you.