2025 Refrigerant Changes: What Homeowners Need to Know
December 12, 2024
If you’ve heard about the upcoming 2025 refrigerant changes and are wondering how they affect your HVAC system, you’re not alone. Starting January 1, 2025, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will enforce a phase-out of R-410A refrigerant in residential air conditioning systems. This shift is designed to reduce the environmental impact of refrigerants that contribute to global warming and ozone depletion.
At Mohr Air Conditioning, we understand that these changes can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to help you navigate the transition and make the best choices for your home.
What Does This Change Mean for You?
If your system uses R-410A refrigerant, don’t worry—you don’t need to replace your unit immediately. However, this change will have an impact on both the cost and availability of parts, so it’s important to be prepared.
R-410A Availability Will Decrease: While you can continue to use and service your existing system, the supply of R-410A refrigerant will become more limited after the end of 2024. As new systems start to use more eco-friendly refrigerants, finding R-410A will become harder and more expensive.
New Systems Will Use Different Refrigerants: Starting in 2025, all new HVAC systems will use refrigerants like R-454B and R-32. These options have a much lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) than R-410A, which makes them better for the environment. However, they are expected to come with a higher price tag due to the updated technology required to handle these new refrigerants.
Increased Costs for New Systems: As manufacturers adjust to using these new refrigerants, homeowners can expect new HVAC systems to be up to 30% more expensive than current models. These changes are not just about the refrigerants themselves but also the upgrades in equipment and the re-training of technicians to handle these systems.
The Positive Side of the 2025 Refrigerant Change
While the change may lead to some challenges, it’s also an opportunity for homeowners to take advantage of the benefits that come with the new refrigerants:
1. Eco-Friendly Impact: The new refrigerants, R-454B and R-32, are significantly better for the environment. They have a much lower Global Warming Potential (GWP), reducing the carbon footprint of your HVAC system and helping to combat climate change.
2. Energy Efficiency: These new refrigerants aren’t just better for the planet—they also offer better energy efficiency. This means your new system could cool your home more effectively and at a lower cost, leading to long-term savings on your energy bills.
3. Future-Proofing: Installing a new system that uses these refrigerants ensures that your HVAC unit is up to date and compliant with all future regulations. It also saves you from the potential hassle and expense of having to retrofit or replace older systems that use outdated refrigerants.
What Should You Do About Your Current HVAC System?
Now that you know about the refrigerant changes, you may be wondering how it impacts your current HVAC system. Here’s what to keep in mind:
1. Keep Your System Maintained: If your system is still functioning well, maintaining it is key. Regular service from professionals like Mohr Air Conditioning can ensure that your system runs efficiently, even as the supply of R-410A refrigerant decreases.
2. Consider Replacement If Needed: If your system is nearing the end of its lifespan or requires frequent repairs, it might be time to upgrade to a more efficient model. While new systems will be pricier, they come with better energy efficiency, which could save you money in the long run.
3. Get Ahead of the Changes: Even though you don’t need to replace your system immediately, you might want to consider upgrading before prices increase. This gives you the opportunity to take advantage of current prices while still enjoying the benefits of a more energy-efficient system.
How Mohr Air Conditioning Can Help
At Mohr Air Conditioning, we’re here to guide you through these changes. Whether you need expert maintenance to keep your current system running smoothly or are looking to replace an aging unit, our team is ready to help.
We can walk you through your options, help you understand the pros and cons of upgrading now vs. later, and ensure that your new system is installed correctly and efficiently. Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions, and rest assured that we’ll help you stay comfortable while keeping your home energy-efficient and eco-friendly.