The Montreal Protocol, adopted in 1987, is a worldwide agreement that promotes the gradual reduction of ozone-depleting chemicals and greenhouse gas emissions to protect the environment. To support this effort, the U.S. passed the American Innovation in Manufacturing Act in 2020 that tasks the Environmental Protection Agency to regulate the use of high global warming potential substances and promote low GWP alternatives.
Why Is R-410A Refrigerant Being Phased Out?
Refrigerants are a crucial component of air conditioning systems. However, they contain chemicals that contribute to global warming. R-410A, used in air conditioning systems for more than 20 years, operates under extreme pressure and often leaks during operation, maintenance or repair.
Although R-410A is non-ozone depleting, it is a greenhouse gas that can contribute to climate change when released into the atmosphere. EPA’s goal is to significantly reduce the use of high GWP refrigerants by 2036.
The heating, ventilation and air conditioning industry has been working diligently to meet the EPA’s deadline of 1 January 2025 for the phaseout of R-410A refrigerant. They have developed new, environmentally friendly refrigerants, such as R-454B and R-32, that work with next-generation HVAC equipment.
How Does the R-410A Refrigerant Phaseout Affect My Current HVAC System?
HVAC systems purchased before January 2025 that use R-410A can still be used and serviced. Components for these systems manufactured before January 2025 can be sold and installed throughout the year. If your system uses R-410A refrigerant and needs repairs or maintenance, the NATE-certified service technicians of Preferred Choice Heating and Air can help supply parts and refrigerants.
We are trained to capture refrigerants instead of releasing them into the atmosphere. Recovered refrigerants are sent to EPA-designated sites for recycling and reuse. You can use your system as long as R-410A is available. However, as supplies dwindle, this refrigerant may cost more. The new refrigerants are not compatible with older equipment and cannot be substituted for R-410A.
What Are the Options for the Future?
Beginning in January 2025, new HVAC equipment will use refrigerants with lower GWP. The heating and cooling systems using new refrigerants are more energy-efficient than previous models.
If you plan to install a new system, we can recommend energy-efficient equipment that meets your needs. Not only will you save money on fuel costs and reduce energy usage, but you can also save on the purchase and installation of new equipment. Our qualified HVAC installation experts can recommend models eligible for federal, state, and local rebates and tax credits.
Advanced HVAC Equipment and Components
We work with all brands of heating and air conditioning equipment. As a Trane Comfort Specialist, we often recommend Trane products because of their reliability and robust warranties. Trane has adopted these new refrigerants and tested them in field trials during the Department of Energy’s Cold-Climate Heat Pump Challenge. Their equipment surpasses the DOE’s requirements.
For more information about upgrading your heat pump or air conditioner as part of the R-410A refrigerant phaseout, contact the HVAC experts at Preferred Choice Heating and Air of Greenville, South Carolina.
