HVAC Refrigerant Changes in 2025

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As of January 1, residential and light commercial properties will need new eco-friendly A2L refrigerants such as R-454B and R-32 instead of older refrigerants like R-410A and R22. These A2Ls have seen increasing use as the deadline drew near and older refrigerants were discontinued, but not all home and business owners have upgraded their home equipment to match the new standards.

Today, we’ll examine what makes these refrigerants different from their predecessors, the different stages of phase-out we’ve already experienced, and what it all means for Ohio homeowners.

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R-454B vs. Other Refrigerants

R-454B will continue to serve as the primary refrigerant for most residential and light commercial air conditioners and heat pumps. However, as of 2025, R-410A is no longer allowed to be manufactured or imported, which means the supply will dwindle, much as the supply of R-22 has dwindled since its own phase-out in 2020.

One notable difference between the new A2L refrigerants like R-454B and the A1 refrigerants they’re replacing, other than the substantial improvement to environmental impact, is that A2L refrigerants can be mildly flammable, which requires additional safety procedures and certain upgrades for tools and equipment used by technicians and in the HVAC units.

Fortunately for homeowners, A2Ls also offer improvements in system efficiency, achieving reduced emissions in part through reduced energy consumption.

Changes in Refrigerant Requirements for Heat Pumps & ACs

Heat pumps and ACs made in recent years and moving forward already use the newer refrigerants, but the substances aren’t being banned — they’re being phased out. New equipment should be built to use A1s, and new A1s can’t be made or imported, but existing systems can continue to use them. However, this will get increasingly difficult and expensive as the existing stockpile of A1s depletes.

Why Will HVAC Equipment Be More Expensive in 2025?

HVAC equipment built to use new refrigerants must consider differences in how the new refrigerants operate, including additional safety considerations around the mild flammability of A2Ls. Meeting new stringent requirements, in combination with changes in raw material prices, ongoing supply chain disruptions, increasing consumer demand both in the U.S. and worldwide, and labor shortages in certain key fields, all combine to make HVAC equipment more expensive.

However, improvements in energy efficiency can make these more expensive systems a beneficial investment for homeowners, just over a longer period of time.

What Does This Change Mean for Ohio Homeowners?

For most Ohio homeowners, the changes won’t be immediately noticeable. If your air conditioner or heat pump is new enough, it may already be using the new refrigerants. If it’s old enough, you’ll likely need to replace it before worrying about A1 supplies running out and pricing rising.

You’ll likely enjoy improved energy efficiency with newer systems as part of the same changes and certain benefits of A2Ls, and the widespread use of more efficient HVAC equipment can reduce the likelihood of regional power outages during intense weather.

If you do experience a refrigerant leak in your system in the future, it’s even more important to catch it quickly. Replacing it might be costly or might warrant a full system replacement or upgrade.

Upgrade Your HVAC System With Blind & Sons Today

If you don’t want to worry about outdated phased-out refrigerants or are interested in a more efficient, eco-friendly system, the expert HVAC technicians at Blind & Sons would be glad to help anyone throughout Northeast Ohio find the perfect AC or heat pump for their home comfort needs. We’ll ensure you understand your system’s ins and outs and can maintain ideal comfort and efficiency through the hottest or coldest days of the year.

Ready to learn more about refrigerant changes or want a quote for a system replacement? Contact Blind & Sons today to get started.

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