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R-410a refrigerant phase out
Most homes that have been updated at least once in the last 10-15 years, are operating on R-410a based equipment. Mini split systems and heat pumps are typically installed with R-410a, up to the end of 2024. Standard a/c can be this or another refrigerant from the past.
What does this mean for you? We can still repair your system installed with this refrigerant [or any older refrigerant] regardless of age, but you can no longer replace it with like for like items to keep costs down. Costs go up due to changes in manufacturing to accommodate the new refrigerants, forcing the installer and client to replace all components rather than only some, as in the past. But, there are always exceptions to explore!
What is refrigerant? Refrigerant is a licensed usage only, gaseous/liquid, that your service folks are trained to use and able to purchase. Basically the secret sauce that makes your cooling [and heating if you have a heat pump].
The phase-out of R-410A is part of a broader effort to reduce the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are potent greenhouse gases.
Phase-Down Timeline: Starting on January 1, 2025, the production and import of R-410A will be prohibited in the U.S. However, the refrigerant itself and parts for systems using R-410A will still be available for a while, but production will slow year by year 2.
Alternative Refrigerants: The phase-out encourages the transition to more environmentally friendly refrigerants, such as R-32 and R-454B, which have lower global warming potential (GWP) and no ozone depletion potential (ODP).
Energy Efficiency Standards: New HVAC systems produced from 2023 onwards must meet higher energy efficiency standards, with a minimum SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) of 14 in the northern U.S. and 15 in the southern U.S. There are also additional efficiency standards to consider when purchasing equipment through your service and install contractor. Contact us to understand more!
R-22 refrigerant phase out
Many systems are still operating on R-22 refrigerant to this day. If you have an r-22 system, plan for the jump past R-410a into the future of new refrigerants!
R-22 is still usable if your a/c is chugging along, but efficiency of new refrigerants is higher and you may notice a nice break on your energy bill by updating.
Production Ban: As of January 1, 2020, the production and import of R-22 have been banned in the U.S. However, recycled and reclaimed R-22 can still be used for servicing existing equipment3.
Impact on Existing Systems: If your air conditioning or refrigeration system uses R-22, you can still use it, but it's important to maintain it properly to minimize leaks and environmental impact.
Transition to Alternatives: The phaseout encourages the transition to more environmentally friendly refrigerants, such as R-410A and R-32, which do not deplete the ozone layer at the same rate. See R-410A above for more info.
R-134a refrigerant phase out
R-134a, also known as HFC-134a, is being phased out due to its high global warming potential (GWP). This is an older refrigerant in commercial/industrial style of equipment designed to replace R-12, R-500, and similar compounds.
Phase-Out Timeline: The production and import of R-134a for new motor vehicle air conditioning (MVAC) systems ended in 2020. It will be completely phased out by January 1, 2028 in favor of more environmentally friendly refrigerants.
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