What the New Federal Mandate Means for Your Home’s Air Conditioning
Periodically, changes or updates in the HVAC industry affect consumers, and we believe in keeping our clients informed. There is a change now in the federal rules around air conditioning refrigerant(s) that will eventually affect all U.S. consumers.
What is a Refrigerant?
Air conditioning systems use a liquid, called a refrigerant, to facilitate their operation. One of the most well-known refrigerants was Freon, but Freon has been phased out because of its negative effect on the ozone layer. Its production and import to the U.S. have been banned since 2020.
New Refrigerants Are Better for the Environment
Currently, the most common refrigerant in use is R410A. Now, it too, will be gradually phased out and new refrigerants that are better for the environment will take its place. The new refrigerants, R454B and R32, have a lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) and align with the EPA’s goal of reducing the carbon footprint of the HVAC industry.
The new refrigerants will be required for all new systems in 2025. The old refrigerant, R410A, will continue to be available for the operation and repair of existing systems.
Can I Still Get the Old Refrigerant?
Yes, at Meyer & Depew, we are taking steps to ensure that we have plenty of the old – and the new – refrigerants on hand for all our clients. We are working hard to provide whichever refrigerant our clients need to keep their homes comfortable.
Is the New Refrigerant Hard to Find? No. It’s Readily Available.
Contrary to what other HVAC professionals may tell you about their inventory, Meyer & Depew has more than sufficient inventory of both of these refrigerants, be it for service or new installation.
I Need a New Air Conditioner. Do I Have to Buy a System That Uses the New Refrigerant?
Right now, manufacturers are prohibited from making systems that use the old refrigerant. However, a consumer could buy a system from 2024’s inventory that would still use the old refrigerant, if they chose to do so.
If you are deciding whether to repair or replace your air conditioning system now, this is another factor to consider. It is anticipated that R32 will be phased out in a future round of government regulations, and that’s why we believe that using the new global-warming-friendly refrigerant (R454B) is the best available long-term solution.
As always, our policy is to give you all the information you need so that you can make the best decision for your home and family.
If you have any questions about the new refrigerant and your home’s HVAC system, please give us a call at 908.272.2100 or schedule an appointment. We’d be happy to evaluate your current system and help you consider all your options.