What Homeowners Need to Know About New HVAC Refrigerant for 2025

Imagine sitting comfortably in your home, unaware of the significant change on the horizon for the HVAC industry. This shift is due to federal regulations enacted into law that require HVAC companies to stop manufacturing air conditioning systems that use 410-A refrigerant, also known as R410-A, due to their “high global warming potential (GWP).”

On January 1, 2025, HVAC manufacturers must only build AC systems that use the new A2L refrigerants, which reportedly have “lower GWP and are more environmentally friendly.”

With the phase-out of older refrigerants, such as R-410A, you’re likely wondering how these changes will affect your home’s air conditioning system and what the future holds for refrigerants like A2L.

Let’s explore the key facts about the new refrigerants coming in 2025 and what you can do to ensure your home stays cool and efficient without unnecessary headaches.

Is the New A2L Refrigerant Also Called Freon?

The term “Freon” is often used by homeowners as a catch-all for refrigerants, but it is actually a brand name that refers specifically to certain chemicals, including R-22, widely used in older air conditioners.

Although many homeowners still refer to all refrigerants as “Freon,” the new refrigerants coming in 2025, such as A2L, are not technically Freon.

A2L refrigerants are part of a new class of chemicals designed to be more environmentally friendly by reducing, what some scientists say, the damage caused to the ozone layer and lowering their global warming potential (GWP). Unlike R-22 and R-410A, A2L refrigerants are more efficient and help air conditioning systems meet stricter environmental standards.

What Refrigerants Are A2L?

The A2L classification includes several types of refrigerants, such as R-32, R-454B, and R-1234yf. These refrigerants are considered mildly flammable, which is why HVAC systems must be carefully designed to use them safely.

The name “A2L” for the new refrigerant originates from its flammability classification.

• ‘A‘ indicates the refrigerant’s flammability level. In this case, ‘A‘ means it is non-flammable.
• ‘2‘ signifies the toxicity level. A ‘2‘ rating means it has a low toxicity level.
• ‘L‘ represents the refrigerant’s ozone depletion potential (ODP). An ‘L‘ rating indicates that it has a very low or negligible ODP.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the transition to A2L refrigerants is part of a global effort to reduce harmful emissions and limit the environmental impact of air conditioning systems. This new refrigerant will be the standard for HVAC units starting in 2025, ensuring that systems are safer for both the environment and homeowners.

Can I Put the New Refrigerant in My Old AC System?

Unfortunately, no. A2L refrigerants cannot be used in older air conditioning systems designed for R-410A or R-22. These refrigerants operate at different pressures and have different chemical properties, so attempting to retrofit an old system could lead to damage and inefficiency.

If your current system uses R-410A or R-22, you may need to upgrade your AC unit to one that is compatible with A2L refrigerants. Extreme Comfort Air Conditioning & Heating can help you evaluate your options and, if necessary, install a new HVAC system optimized for 2025 and beyond.

Can I Still Get 410A Freon Refrigerant for My Air Conditioner?

Yes, homeowners can still use existing supplies for repairs and maintenance after December 31, 2024, as R-410A refrigerant will still be available for the near term in the United States; however, government regulations will eventually phase out its production.

If your system runs on R-410A, it is important to plan ahead and budget for the potential need to switch to an A2L-compatible system.

How long will 410A Freon be available?

As of the date of this post, the EPA has not published a timeline for when they will mandate the production of R-410A refrigerant to cease. Eventually, it will be phased out in the United States, though it may still be available for a limited time after that through reclaimed supplies. However, as supplies dwindle, the cost of R-410A is expected to rise.

The exact timeline for the phase-out of R-410A can vary depending on local regulations and market conditions.

What is the Difference Between A2L and 410A?

According to EPA, the key difference between A2L and R-410A is the environmental impact. A2L refrigerants have a significantly lower global warming potential compared to R-410A, making them more eco-friendly.

Additionally, A2L refrigerants are designed to provide the same level of cooling performance as R-410A but are often more energy-efficient, which can result in lower utility bills.

Can You Still Get R-22 Freon for Older AC Units?

R-22, commonly known as Freon, is no longer produced; however, reclaimed R-22 may still be available for older systems repair.

Keep in mind that the cost of R-22 continues to rise as supplies dwindle, and it may be more cost-effective to replace your outdated unit rather than continue paying for increasingly expensive refrigerant.

Do I Need to Upgrade My System to the new A2L refrigerant?

Not necessarily. If your AC system is running efficiently on R-410A and does not require significant repairs, you do not need to upgrade to a system using the new A2L refrigerant.

However, switching to a new unit with A2L refrigerant could be a wise long-term investment if your system is older or frequently needs repairs.

Homeowners who upgrade now will benefit from the new refrigerants’ improved energy efficiency and eco-friendliness. Extreme Comfort Air Conditioning & Heating can help assess your current system and guide you on the best course of action.

Do I Have to Replace My Old Air Conditioner in 2025?

There is no legal requirement to replace your air conditioner in 2025. However, if your system uses R-22 or if R-410A becomes too costly to maintain, you may benefit from upgrading to a new AC system.

Investing in a new system that uses A2L refrigerant will ensure that your home stays cool and energy-efficient for years to come. As the HVAC industry transitions to A2L refrigerants, homeowners will need to make informed decisions about their cooling needs. By understanding the implications of this change, you can ensure that your home remains comfortable and energy-efficient moving forward.

Closing Thoughts

The refrigerant changes in 2025 are a significant shift for homeowners, especially those with older air conditioning systems. While you do not have to replace your system immediately, it is important to plan ahead.

Are you ready to make the switch and stay ahead of the upcoming regulations? Extreme Comfort Air Conditioning & Heating can help you navigate the transition and install a new HVAC system that meets the latest standards.