New refrigerant changes are coming in 2025, affecting homeowners throughout San Jose, CA, and nationwide. This transition changes the type of refrigerant used in a home’s HVAC system.
At Calvey Heating and Air, we understand how important it is to return to a cool and comfortable home after a day at Montgomery Hill Park or one of San Jose’s many other outdoor attractions. That’s why we want our customers to be aware of any major upcoming changes to their HVAC. Read on to discover everything you need to know about these new refrigerant changes set to take place in 2025.
What Are the New Refrigerant Changes for 2025?
What are the new changes for HVAC refrigerants, and why are they taking place? These changes are set because of new environmental laws. The American Innovation and Manufacturing Act (AIM) was enacted into law in 2020, authorizing a gradual, 15-year-long phaseout of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) for many applications, including HVAC systems for homes and businesses.
As part of AIM, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set a new global warming potential (GWP) limit for air conditioning, stating that the revised GWP limit can be no more than 750. However, common refrigerants, like R-410A, have a GWP of 2,088. This means prior versions like R-410A are being phased out and won’t be used in any new HVAC equipment. Using the new type of refrigerant labeled R454B ensures all new air conditioners comply with updated greenhouse gas emissions standards and regulations.
Why Is R454B the New Standard in 2025?
R454B is the new industry standard for air conditioners and heat pumps in 2025. Here are some reasons why R454B is set to become the new standard:
- Lower GWP rating: Compared to R-410A, R454B has a 75% lower Global Warming Potential rating than its predecessor. This significantly lower rating helps reduce the carbon footprint and harmful environmental impact of standard air conditioning systems.
- It won’t deplete ozone: R454B has no ozone depletion potential (ODP), so it won’t further harm the earth’s delicate ozone layer.
- Low toxicity: This new refrigerant is considered low toxicity, making it a safer alternative to other refrigerants.
- Safe: Although R454B is classified as mildly flammable, it’s safe as long as all codes and standards are followed correctly. Fires from R454B usually burn out instead of accelerating, making it a safer option for homes and businesses than older refrigerants.
- Energy efficiency: Systems that use R454B are more energy efficient, helping to lower your monthly energy costs.
How Will These Changes Impact Homeowners?
Now that you know more about the new AC refrigerant for 2025, you may wonder how these changes will affect you, the homeowner. Well, there could be increased costs on either side. New HVAC systems could cost more due to the higher production costs for manufacturers, and maintenance costs might increase for your existing HVAC system as R-410A becomes harder to find.
The transition to the new refrigerant might cause scheduling delays due to a possible combination of supply chain shortages and high demand for the new units. Existing systems may need to be replaced altogether.
Repairs and maintenance will likely have the biggest impacts on homeowners. If your system is low on refrigerant, it may cost more to fill it with the new version. Technicians also need training on the proper methods for using and adding R454B, resulting in higher labor costs for customers.
Do You Need to Upgrade Your HVAC System for R454B?
You don’t need to upgrade your existing HVAC system to accommodate R454B, but an upgrade does provide you with a range of benefits. Newer systems are designed and built to match or exceed current regulations, including compatibility with safer refrigerants.
A new, upgraded system offers reliable performance that will continue for years, helping you save on maintenance and repair costs later. Upgrading your system sooner rather than later also gives you an HVAC system that utilizes the latest design technology with higher SEER rating.
If you install a new heat pump, you can avoid higher costs and get an updated, energy-efficient system. Consult with one of the experienced technicians at Calvey Heating and Air to perform a system inspection. We’ll determine if you need to make any adjustments for optimal performance with R454B.
How Homeowners Can Prepare for the 2025 Refrigerant Change
Even though you don’t have to upgrade your system for the 2025 refrigerant change right now, there are other things you can do to prepare:
- Schedule an evaluation with Calvey Heating and Air. We’ll assess your system’s age and refrigerant type and recommend upgrades or maintenance.
- Prioritize regular HVAC maintenance to keep it running optimally for as long as possible.
- Research other energy-efficient options for your home, like a new heat pump or ductless mini-split system.
- Start budgeting now in case you need to purchase a new system or pay for more costly modifications once the mandates go into effect.
- If your system is approaching the end of its lifespan, consider making upgrades early to save money while demand is lower.
Take steps today to prepare for the new refrigerant changes now so you’re ready to handle whatever comes your way, whether you need a new HVAC system or a minor modification.
Contact Calvey Heating and Air for an HVAC Inspection
At Calvey, we value our customers and want you to be prepared for the new refrigerant changes. Our family-owned and operated company proudly serves clients in San Jose, South Bay, Palo Alto, Mountain View, and more, and all our work comes with an 18-month warranty.
Contact us to schedule a system inspection, and we’ll determine whether you need to make any modifications as the refrigerant updates take effect.