A Guide of Commonly Asked Questions About Refrigerants in 2025
In the world of HVAC, change is constant, and 2025 marks a significant shift in refrigerant standards.
Beginning January 1, 2025, the manufacturing of new HVAC systems using R-410A refrigerant will effectively end in the United States. This transition to A2L refrigerants is a major change, and we understand you have questions.
This guide will provide answers for residents of Las Vegas, and surrounding areas. It includes:
- General Information About the Refrigerant Changes in 2025
- What the New Refrigerant Laws Mean to Homeowners
- What the New Refrigerant Laws Mean to the HVAC Industry
- What is A2L Refrigerant?
- Homeowner FAQs About the Refrigerant Changes
- HVAC Professional FAQs About the Refrigerant Changes
I. General Information About the Refrigerant Changes in 2025
Beginning January 1, 2025, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is mandating a shift to a new refrigerant type for all new air conditioning systems and heat pumps. This regulation, announced in 2020, requires manufacturers to switch from refrigerants like R-410A to A2L refrigerants.
Previously, most air conditioning systems relied on hydrofluorocarbons (HFC) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFC) as the refrigerant, like R-410A, but these new guidelines require A2L refrigerants instead.
While some manufacturers have already transitioned to A2L systems, existing R-410A equipment can still be sold and installed until the end of 2025. However, the long-term costs of maintaining a system with R-410A will rise sharply as the refrigerant becomes more scarce.
II. What the New Refrigerant Laws Mean to Las Vegas, Homeowners
The refrigerant changes will impact homeowners, primarily in terms of future HVAC system purchases and potential repair costs for older systems. While existing R-410A systems can still be repaired, the cost of R-410A refrigerant and replacement parts will increase significantly as production is phased down.
HVAC systems typically last 10 to 15 years with proper care. ENERGY STAR® recommends starting to plan the replacement of your existing HVAC system after 10-12 years to take advantage of more energy-efficient models.
If your system is older than 10 years, now is the time to seriously consider replacing it with a new, A2L-compatible system.
III. What the new refrigerant laws mean to the HVAC industry
This transition requires the HVAC industry to embrace more sustainable practices. Technicians must adapt to A2L refrigerants, which have different properties and require specialized handling due to their mild flammability.
Comprehensive training programs are essential for safe installation and servicing.
IV. What is A2L Refrigerant?
A2L refrigerants are designed to have lower global warming potential (GWP) than traditional refrigerants like hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).
Let’s delve deeper into the components:
- Hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs): These are organic compounds comprising hydrogen, fluorine, and carbon atoms. They don’t stay in the atmosphere for long periods, thus reducing their contribution to ozone depletion and low GWP rating.
- Blends of HFCs and HFOs: Some A2L refrigerants are formulated as blends of HFCs and HFOs. This blending allows for optimizing performance while still significantly reducing GWP. These blends will be more prevalent in new HVAC equipment.
Common A2L refrigerants include the following. You may see these R-coded terms used in place of A2L on your HVAC products.
- Pure HFOs (such as R-1234yf and R-1234ze)
- HFC/HFO blends (such as R-452B and R-454B)
- Some Pure HFCs (such as R-32)
A2L refrigerants offer a balance between efficient cooling performance and reduced environmental impact, aligning with global efforts to mitigate climate change by phasing out high-GWP refrigerants.
V. Homeowner FAQs About the Refrigerant Changes
We have been monitoring these changes and are here to answer some of the more frequently asked questions about refrigerants:
- Will my current HVAC be mandated to be replaced if it uses the old refrigerant types?
No. This change applies only to the manufacturing of new systems. You are not required to replace your existing R-410A system. - Will my system that uses R-410A be eligible for repairs under these new EPA rules?
Yes, repairs are possible. However, R-410A refrigerant and parts will become increasingly expensive and difficult to obtain. We strongly recommend considering replacement with an A2L system rather than investing in costly repairs for an older R-410A unit. - I’ve heard that A2L refrigerants are flammable. Is this true, and should I be concerned?
Yes, A2L refrigerants are mildly flammable. This is why professional handling is essential. Our technicians are trained to handle these refrigerants safely.
Due to the mild flammability of A2L refrigerants, specialized training and handling procedures are essential for safe installation and service. - After the transition on January 1, 2025, if my R-410A evaporator coil leaks, can it be replaced, or will I have to purchase and install a whole new system?
While a minor repair might be possible, a major repair, like a coil leak in an R-410A system, is a strong reason to consider a full replacement with an A2L system due to the increasing costs and decreasing availability of R-410A parts.
As R-410A is phased out, the inventory for these replacement parts will shrink, and costs will go up to repair older models. - Can I convert my R-410A system to use A2L refrigerant?
No. R-410A and A2L systems are not compatible, and you cannot simply switch refrigerants. - Can my existing R-410A condensing equipment have its coils replaced with the new A2L refrigerant coil or Thermal Expansion Valves (TXV)? Coils for furnace systems are not interchangeable; you will need to repair them with the appropriate parts.
As for condensing units, the refrigerant used in the indoor coil (whether A2L or R-410A) must match the refrigerant used in the outdoor unit. There are replacement coils for systems using either type of refrigerant, so you can repair your unit as needed—you just can’t have mismatched refrigerants. - If I’m replacing a split AC system with one with an A2L refrigerant, do I need to replace my existing gas furnace, or will I need special components to make it compatible? No, you won’t need to replace your gas furnace or need special components.
- My AC will need to be replaced in the next few years. Should I have it replaced now? If your AC needs replacing in the next few years, absolutely replace it now with an A2L system. While R-410A systems are still available, purchasing one now could turn into a costly mistake due to the long-term expenses associated with R-410A.
VI. HVAC Professional FAQs About the New Refrigerant Changes
Homeowners are not the only individuals with questions. Changes in equipment can mean changes in training, tools, and handling.
- Which A2L refrigerant will most AC manufacturers use?
One of the more common A2L refrigerants that will be used throughout the industry is R-454B. - Can I substitute R-410A with R-454B?
No. While the pressures and temperatures of the two refrigerants may be similar, the compressor and expansion devices are incompatible with different refrigerants. - Will the new equipment being manufactured for this change have leak detection systems?
Yes, a leak detection system will be installed on fan coils - Is it possible to retrofit an existing R-410A equipment with A2L refrigerant equipment?
When it comes to HVAC systems, coils are not interchangeable.
Concerning condensing units, it’s crucial that the refrigerant type in the indoor coil (whether A2L or R-410A) aligns with that used in the outdoor unit. Fortunately, replacement coils are currently available for both refrigerant types, allowing you to maintain and repair a customer’s unit as necessary. - Will the new A2L refrigerant equipment come charged or dry?
The new equipment will come charged. - What is the operating pressure of R-454B?
The operating pressures of the new refrigerant are slightly less than that of R-410A. - If R-454B and other A2Ls are flammable, how should repairs be undertaken when there’s residual refrigerant left in the unit?
A2Ls are mildly flammable and not explosive, so the chance of a fire hazard is extremely low. Proper safety procedures involve reclaiming the refrigerant before service. - What’s the recommended storage method for multiple containers of R-454B in an unconditioned warehouse?
Regulations currently permit storing up to 20,000 pounds of refrigerant in a single control area without sprinklers. Additional control areas can be established through fire-rated walls or by installing a sprinkler system. - What tools and procedures are essential when dealing with R-454B?
Spark-proof electronic tools are mandatory, saturation temperature visual aids should be up-to-date, and an inverted thread adaptor is necessary for refrigerant cylinders. Best practice procedures for R-410A equipment are applicable. - How long before R-410A is phased out entirely?
The EPA transition date for manufacturing with A2L refrigerants was January 1, 2025; however, sell-through dates of existing equipment may vary.
Contact A-1 Mechanical for All HVAC Needs and Questions
The transition to A2L refrigerants like R-454B heralds a new era in the HVAC industry and brings myriad questions and considerations. If you have a question not listed here, don’t hesitate to call us at
725-331-8801 or request service online.
If you are considering replacing your old HVAC, you can also request a free quote on a new system—regardless of refrigerant type. By addressing these concerns and providing clarity on installation, maintenance, and safety protocols, A-1 Mechanical can help Las Vegas, homeowners navigate this transition with confidence.