Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Replace Your AC: What to Know About the R-410A Refrigerant Phase Out
July 23, 2024
Whether you have a heat pump or a traditional air conditioner, refrigerants are an essential component of your cooling system’s function. However, because of their toxicity and negative environmental impact, refrigerants are heavily regulated both in California and throughout the country.
Starting in January 2025, one of the most common types of refrigerant used in both air conditioners and heat pumps, known as R-410A, will start being phased out throughout the country. Keep reading to learn more about this process and how it will affect Greater Sacramento homeowners and businesses.
What Are R-410A Refrigerants & Why Ban Them?
R-410A refrigerant is a blend of two hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants: 50% R-32 (difluoromethane) and 50% R-125 (pentafluoroethane). While HFC refrigerants were initially introduced as safe alternatives to Freon, recent studies have shown that they significantly contribute to global warming. The upcoming ban on R-410A refrigerants is part of a larger effort by the EPA AIM Act to reduce the environmental impact of HVAC systems.
R-410A has a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 2088, making it a potent greenhouse gas. The ban encourages the use of more environmentally friendly refrigerants with lower GWP, such as R-32 and R-454B. By phasing out R-410A, the HVAC industry can significantly reduce its carbon footprint and align with global efforts to combat climate change.
R-410A Regulations in California
The federal phase out process for R-410A will be effective starting on January 1, 2025, and all new HVAC systems will need to implement safer alternatives. Existing cooling systems, however, will still be able to use the refrigerant. R-410A will still be sold and manufactured or imported to the US until the end of 2036. In California, the full ban on the refrigerants is expected to go into effect on January 1, 2030.
Homeowners that have a cooling system that uses R-410A won’t immediately need to replace their units, as the ban only covers the sale, not the use, of the refrigerant. However, it will become much more expensive to service and repair these systems. In order to recharge refrigerant levels on existing systems under the impending ban, HVAC technicians will need to use reclaimed refrigerant from other systems, which means supplies will be extremely limited. Eventually reclaimed R-410A supply will be so low that a replacement will be the only option.
Get Ahead of the R-410 Phase Out with Brower Mechanical
Brower Mechanical offers high-performance cooling system installation, repairs, and maintenance. We carry several options to choose from that use EPA-approved refrigerants, including air conditioners, heat pumps, and geothermal systems. If you have an aging air conditioner or heat pump in your home that uses R-410A refrigerant, replacing it now could save you thousands down the road.
We’ve been helping Greater Sacramento homeowners and businesses with their HVAC needs since 1979, and our team can help find a reliable solution that meets the state’s carbon neutrality goals and your specific needs. We’re also well versed in what rebates and incentives are available in the area to make upgrading to an environmentally safer cooling system more affordable.
