Transitioning Away from Your AC’s R-410A Refrigerant and Its Impact on HVAC Service in Roanoke
The cooling industry is starting to undergo a big change, moving toward different HVAC refrigerants mandated by the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020. The goal is for the HVAC sector to systematically eliminate the current class of refrigerants while also introducing new standards for the refrigerants used in the design of central AC units and heat pumps. The new class of refrigerants has a lower environmental impact compared to the refrigerants currently in use.
As you can expect, this will drastically change how AC systems are sold and serviced. But will your present AC unit be affected? The total home comfort Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can give you insights. We’ll offer a few details about the reason why the AC refrigerant R410a is being phased out and how it could affect you.
For full details, read or download our available information packet!
Learning About the Current HVAC Refrigerant Guidelines
This year, 2024, will be pivotal to this transition. R-410A production has already been limited by 40%, causing upward pressure on the cost of both servicing older systems and purchasing new cooling units. Most HVAC brands have started to update their current air conditioning and heat pump models over the year, getting ready for the 2025 deadline, when they will have to fully end the manufacturing of units with R-410A.
Beginning in January 2025, all new air conditioners and heat pumps will have to be designed with the next generation of A2L-class coolants in mind. Repairs for older and current R410a AC systems will still be doable, but in the future, the supply of refrigerant will become less available and its price will rise. But that poses the question: Just WHY is R410a being phased out?
Why Is R410a Being Eliminated?
R-410A is by far the most common coolant, having been used for decades as the conventional choice for residential AC systems. Unfortunately, recent studies have shown that this refrigerant contains high levels of a substance known to contribute to climate change. To combat this, in September 2021 the EPA issued its specific strategy to drastically reduce R-410A consumption. The initiative mandates the introduction of A2L, a a type of new refrigerants.
This isn’t the first time the field has had to change to shifting environmental goals. Most AC systems used to use R-22 refrigerant before it was itself replaced by R410a. Sound complicated? Well, it is. The cycle continues as our government try its best to limit the impact these substances have on the environment.
The newer class of A2L refrigerants are, like past refrigerants, non-toxic. There is one significant difference, however. The new A2L refrigerants are mildly flammable. That being said, the average homeowner has no cause for concern as new systems with A2L have been designed with the highest safety standards in mind.
What Type of Refrigerant Does My Air Conditioner Use?
To find out the type of refrigerant your cooling system needs, begin by looking at the sticker on the outside unit or for the info in your AC guide. This label generally provides the type of refrigerant, along with other important details like model number and other details. If you can’t locate the details you are looking for, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. They can help you figure out your refrigerant type as well as its age.
R410a: R410a is the most widespread type in modern air conditioners. If your air conditioner was installed after 2010, there’s a good chance it contains R410a. Look for a tag or marking on the outside unit that says “R410a”.
R-32: R-32 is another newer A2L-class refrigerant, chosen for a lower environmental impact.
R-22: R-22 was the standard refrigerant for decades, but it’s already been replaced due to its damage to the ozone layer. If your air conditioner is more than 15 years old, it may still contain R-22.
R134a: R134a is less frequent in household air conditioning, and is more common in the AC system your car uses.
If your air conditioner was set up in 2010 or before…
You are more likely to have an AC unit that still runs on R-22. Service for R-22 systems will be expensive as replacement refrigerant becomes scare. Homeowners with old R-22 systems will need to consider replacing it with one that’s more efficient and better for the environment. It’s still possible to replace your system with one using R-410a, but you should realize that the availability of R-410A is beginning to run out. You could also change the older AC with a new A2L system, and you have Expert local support from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to help you navigate this frustrating home comfort headache.
If your AC unit was put in after 2010…
You likely have a system that uses R410a. You don’t have to take immediate action, but keep in mind that as R410a refrigerant runs low, service costs for these units will continue to rise.
Selecting the Best Refrigerant with Help from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing
By carefully choosing your new or replacement cooling HVAC system or heat pump, you can guarantee you get the most cost-effective comfort solution for your home. The total home comfort Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can help you find the best system for your home, so book an appointment today.
