As we approach 2025, significant changes are on the horizon for the HVAC industry. These changes could affect the comfort of your home and your financial planning—especially if you own an older HVAC system. If you’re not familiar with what’s going on, here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming refrigerant phase-out and what it means for you as a homeowner.
What’s Changing in 2025?
Starting January 1, 2025, the EPA will require the HVAC industry to phase out the use of R-410A refrigerant in all new air conditioning systems. This is part of a global effort to reduce greenhouse gases and mitigate climate change. Refrigerants are essential components in air conditioning systems, as they allow the system to move heat out of your home, thereby cooling your indoor environment. Over the years, different refrigerants have been used, and some have had environmental impacts that can no longer be ignored.
The first major shift in refrigerants occurred in the past when R-22 (also known as Freon) was widely used in air conditioning systems. However, R-22 contains chlorine, which contributes to ozone layer depletion—an issue scientists have been aware of for decades. As part of the Montreal Protocol, a global initiative to protect the ozone layer, the U.S. began phasing out R-22 in 2010. By 2020, the production and import of R-22 were banned, leading to higher costs for repairs involving this refrigerant.
Now, similar environmental concerns are prompting the phase-out of R-410A, which is the most commonly used refrigerant in newer AC units. While R-410A does not harm the ozone layer, it is a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming. Beginning in 2025, the EPA will require all new air conditioning systems to use refrigerants with much lower Global Warming Potential (GWP), such as R-454B and R-32.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you have an older system using R-22 or R-410A, here’s what you should keep in mind:
- R-22 Systems: These systems are becoming more expensive to repair as supplies of R-22 refrigerant become harder to find. Additionally, older systems tend to be less energy-efficient, which means higher electricity costs for homeowners. If you still have an R-22 system, it may be a good idea to start planning for an upgrade to a more efficient system.
- R-410A Systems: If your system uses R-410A, you can still continue to use it for now. While R-410A will no longer be available in new units after 2024, it will still be available for servicing existing systems for the foreseeable future. However, as new refrigerants like R-454B and R-32 enter the market, the cost of replacing or upgrading to a new system will likely be higher due to new safety features and technology.
- New Refrigerants: The introduction of R-454B and R-32 refrigerants means that new systems will be more environmentally friendly. These refrigerants have much lower GWP than R-410A, helping to reduce the impact of HVAC systems on the environment. However, these systems come with additional safety features and technology that make them more expensive upfront.
Why Act Now?
Upgrading your system now could save you money in the long run. As refrigerant supplies dwindle and the industry transitions to new standards, the cost of both repairs and replacements will likely rise. In fact, it’s expected that systems using the new refrigerants could cost 10-25% more than current systems.
By upgrading now, you can lock in lower pricing and avoid paying more in the future. Additionally, older systems are often less efficient, meaning you could be spending more on energy bills than necessary. If your HVAC system is over 15 years old or you’ve been facing ongoing repair issues, it might be time to consider an upgrade.
What Should You Do?
Whether you’re dealing with an older system or planning ahead for the 2025 refrigerant phase-out, there are steps you can take to ensure your home remains comfortable and your HVAC system is running efficiently:
- Schedule a Consultation: The best way to prepare for the 2025 changes is to schedule a consultation with an HVAC professional. They can assess the condition of your current system, discuss potential upgrades, and provide you with recommendations tailored to your home and budget.
- Consider Energy Efficiency: Newer systems are more energy-efficient and will save you money on your utility bills over time. If you’re replacing an older system, upgrading to a new, efficient model can significantly reduce your energy consumption and carbon footprint.
- Get Ahead of the Change: By upgrading your system before the 2025 deadline, you can lock in current prices for systems using R-410A refrigerant, avoiding future price hikes related to new refrigerant technologies.
Additional Considerations
- The Role of Refrigerants in HVAC Systems: Refrigerants are a crucial component of your HVAC system. They allow your air conditioner to cool your home by transferring heat from inside to outside. As the industry moves toward more eco-friendly refrigerants, the goal is not just to improve the environment but also to improve energy efficiency. New refrigerants, like R-454B and R-32, are designed to be less harmful to the environment while still providing the cooling power you need.
- Energy Efficiency: One of the major benefits of upgrading to newer refrigerants is improved energy efficiency. New systems use advanced technology to consume less power while delivering better cooling performance. This means lower utility bills and a reduced environmental impact, as well as less wear and tear on your system.
- Environmental Impact: The transition to refrigerants with lower GWP is part of a larger, global effort to address climate change. By using refrigerants that are less harmful to the atmosphere, the HVAC industry is helping to reduce the overall impact of household energy use on the planet. Choosing a new system with a low-GWP refrigerant is one way you can play your part in this important environmental effort.
How Parobek Plumbing & Air Conditioning Can Help
As a Rheem Pro Partner, Parobek Plumbing & Air Conditioning will continue to service all refrigerants, including R-22, R-410A, and new eco-friendly refrigerants like R-454B and R-32. Whether you need a repair or a replacement, our team of experts is here to help you navigate these upcoming changes and make the best decision for your home.
We encourage you to schedule a free, no-pressure consultation with one of our HVAC specialists. We’ll evaluate your system, explain your options, and help you find a solution that fits your needs and budget.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Don’t wait until the 2025 deadline approaches! Now is the perfect time to prepare your HVAC system for the future. Call us at (737) 345-0222 to book your appointment and take the first step toward a more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly system.
Thank you for trusting Parobek Plumbing & Air Conditioning. We’re proud to serve our community and look forward to helping you keep your home comfortable for years to come.
