Refrigerant Changes Are Coming in 2025: Is Your HVAC System Ready?
The HVAC industry is always growing and changing, and more ways are being explored to make heating and cooling more efficient for homeowners and for the world. Oftentimes, these changes have a big impact on you as a property owner. In 2025, we’re gearing up for a major shift in the world of refrigerants; a transition is set to shake things up in a big way. Are you prepared for what’s coming? Read on to get the scoop on these important changes and how they might affect you.
What’s New for 2025: The Low-Down on Low GWP Refrigerants
2025 is shaping up to be a game-changer for the HVAC industry. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is rolling out new regulations that will phase out refrigerants with high Global Warming Potential (GWP) in favor of low GWP alternatives. This shift is all about reducing our impact on the environment and combating climate change.
But what does this mean for you? Well, if you’ve got air conditioning equipment, heat pumps, or commercial refrigeration equipment, you’ll want to pay attention. These changes will affect everything from residential AC units to light commercial air conditioners and even industrial process refrigeration systems.
The new refrigerants coming in 2025 are designed to be more environmentally friendly. They’ll help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and slow down global warming. It’s a big step forward in making our cooling systems more sustainable.
Out With the Old, In With the New: Saying Goodbye to R-410A
One of the biggest changes you’ll see is the phasing out of R-410A, a common refrigerant used in many current HVAC systems. R-410A has been the go-to choice for a while, but it’s got a fairly high GWP. That means it’s not doing our planet any favors.
The EPA refrigerant regulations are pushing for alternatives that are kinder to the environment, such as R-32 and R-454B. These new refrigerants will have a lower global warming potential, which is good news for everyone. But it also means that if you’ve got an older system using R-410A, you might think it’s time to start thinking about an upgrade.
Thankfully, you don’t have to panic yet. This change won’t happen overnight. You’ve got time to plan and prepare, but know that over time, older refrigerants will be less available and eventually phased out in favor of the new refrigerant 2025 regulations mandate.
R-410A Is Still Accessible
Connors Plumbing, Heating & Air is still selling R-410A equipment until the end of 2024, and R-410A refrigerant will remain available until 2036. This means that the equipment we’re selling now will continue to function perfectly well for years to come.
Will Prices Increase?
One thing to keep in mind with the refrigerant shift is the price tag. New systems using updated refrigerants could see a price increase of up to 30%. So, while there’s no immediate need to upgrade your system, you may want to plan ahead if you anticipate needing a replacement in the coming years.
What This Means for Homeowners: Short-Term Costs, Long-Term Benefits
So, what does all this mean for you as a homeowner? In the short term, you might see some changes in how your HVAC system is serviced. If you’re getting a new system installed, make sure your technicians are up-to-date on current regulation changes as well. Technicians will need to be extra careful to prevent refrigerant leaks, and they might need to completely evacuate refrigerant from your system during certain repairs.
Remember, the new low GWP refrigerants are more energy-efficient. That means your air conditioning and heat pump equipment could end up using less energy, which could lead to more cost savings in your wallets. Plus, you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing your comfort isn’t coming at the cost of the environment.
Getting Ready for the Refrigerant Revolution
Now that you know what’s coming, how can you prepare? First off, don’t rush out to replace your HVAC system just yet. If your current system is working well and doesn’t have any leaks, you can keep using it. However, if you’re in the market for new HVAC equipment, you may want to consider opting for systems that are compatible with the new low GWP refrigerants. This could save you from having to upgrade again in a few years.
It’s also a good idea to stay on top of your HVAC maintenance and tune-up needs. Regular check-ups can help catch any refrigerant leaks early and keep your system running efficiently. This is especially important for older systems using R-410A. If you’ve got window air conditioning units or packaged terminal air conditioners, don’t worry. These smaller units will likely be some of the last to be affected by the changes. But it’s still worth keeping an eye on developments in this area.
Connors Plumbing, Heating and Air Can Guide Minnesota Residents Through Refrigerant Changes in the New Year
The refrigerant changes coming in 2025 are just the beginning. As we adapt to a changing climate, more shifts in HVAC technology are bound to come. But there’s no need to stress.
If you’ve got questions about how these changes might affect your AC or heat pump, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you get a grip on these changes and keep your home comfortable, no matter what. Whether you require a complete system replacement or routine air conditioning maintenance, you can trust Connors Plumbing, Heating and Air to meet your needs.
Remember, we’re still offering R-410A equipment until the end of 2024, and with R-410A refrigerant available until 2036, the equipment we’re selling now will continue to serve you well without needing an immediate upgrade. However, with a potential price increase of up to 30% starting in 2025, now may be the perfect time to upgrade your system and lock in current rates. If you’re interested in upgrading and avoiding the anticipated cost hike, give us a call today!
