Transitioning Away from Your AC’s R-410A Refrigerant and Its Impact on HVAC Service in Raleigh

The cooling industry is entering a major change, shifting to different HVAC refrigerants mandated by the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020. The goal is for the cooling sector to systematically eliminate the current class of refrigerants while also introducing new requirements for the refrigerants used in the production of central air conditioners and heat pumps. The new class of refrigerants has a lower environmental impact than the refrigerants currently in use.

As you can expect, this will drastically alter how HVACsystems are offered and repaired. But will your present AC unit be impacted? The total home comfort Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can give you insights. We’ll share information about why the AC refrigerant R-410A is being replaced and how it could impact you.

For all the details, read or download our full information packet!

Learning About the Existing HVAC Coolant Regulations

This summer, 2024, will be pivotal to this shift. R-410A manufacturing has already been cut by 40%, creating an increase on the cost of both servicing older systems and buying new AC systems. Most HVAC brands have started to swap out their older air conditioning and heat pump product lines over the season, preparing for the 2025 deadline, when they will have to fully stop the production of units with R410A.

Starting in January 2025, all new AC systems and heat pumps will need to be manufactured with the new class of A2L-class coolants in mind. Repairs for existing R410a units will still be available, but over time, the supply of refrigerant will become scarce and its price will rise. But that makes you ask: Just WHY is R410a being replaced?

Why Is R-410A Being Phased Out?

R410a is undeniably the most common refrigerant, having been used for decades as the go-to for conventional AC systems. Unfortunately, new research has shown that this refrigerant contains a significant amount of a chemical known to contribute to climate change. To deal with this, in September 2021 the EPA put out its specific strategy to drastically cut R-410A use. The plan requires the introduction of A2L, a a class of new refrigerants.

This isn’t the first time the sector has had to change to new eco-friendly standards. Most AC systems used to use R-22 refrigerant before it was itself replaced by R410a. Sound complicated? Well, it is. The cycle continues as our government try its best to limit the impact these chemicals have on the environment.

The newer class of A2L coolants are, like past refrigerants, non-toxic. There is one major difference, however. This new A2L refrigerants are slightly flammable. That being said, the average homeowner has no cause for concern as new systems using A2L have been designed with the utmost safety in mind.

What Type of Refrigerant Does My Cooling System at Home Use?

To determine what kind of refrigerant your AC unit uses, start by looking at the label on the outside unit or for the info in your owner’s manual. This tag usually shows the type of refrigerant, along with other important details like unit specifications and other details. If you can’t find the details you need, don’t hesitate to contact the Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. They can help you figure out your refrigerant type as well as its age.

R410a: R410a is the most common type in recent air conditioners. If your cooling unit was installed after 2010, there’s a good chance it contains R410a. Look for a tag or label on the outdoor unit that indicates “R410a”.

R-32: R-32 is another recent A2L-class refrigerant, used for a smaller impact on the environment.

R-22: R-22 was the common choice for decades, but it’s already been replaced due to its harmful effect on the ozone layer. If your AC is more than 15 years old, it may still use R-22.

R134a: R134a is less frequent in household air conditioning, and is more usual in automotive air conditioning.

If your AC unit was set up in 2010 or before… 

You are more likely to have an AC unit that still uses R-22. Servicing or repairing R-22 systems will be expensive as replacement refrigerant becomes scare. Homeowners with old R-22 systems will need to consider replacing it with one that’s more efficient and better for the environment. It’s still possible to replace current systems with one using R-410a, but you should keep in mind that the stock of R-410A is starting to deplete. You could also change the older AC with a new A2L-class unit, and you have Expert local resources from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to help you solve this frustrating home comfort headache.

If your air conditioner was set up after 2010…

You most likely have a system that uses R410a. You don’t have to take immediate action, but don’t forget that as R410a refrigerant runs out, service expenses for these units will continue to rise.

Selecting the Right Coolant with Help from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing

By carefully choosing your new or replacement AC unit or heat pump, you can ensure you get the most cost-effective comfort for your home. The total home comfort Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can help you discover the ideal system for your home, so book an appointment today.