What To Know About the New Refrigerant Standards for Your HVAC System
Many HVAC systems use a refrigerant known as R-410A, which increases the risk of leaking during maintenance or repairs. Unfortunately, this type of refrigerant can be environmentally harmful. That’s why R-410A will soon be phased out and replaced with A2L refrigerants, which are more environmentally friendly.
In this blog, the professionals at Harris Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric offer their expertise to help you understand the details of the transition and its implications for your home.
Understanding the Transition
The transition of R-410A to A2L is a part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s goal of phasing out harmful hydrofluorocarbons under the American Innovation & Manufacturing (AIM) Act. A2L refrigerants are considered acceptable alternatives because they are more efficient, less flammable, and less harmful to your health.
The most common A2L refrigerants likely to replace R-410A are R-32 and R-454B. While the complete transition will take time, R-410A is expected to be phased out of new HVAC systems as early as 2025.
Implications for HVAC System Owners
This transition will not affect your current HVAC system, as existing systems cannot switch from R-410A to other refrigerants. There’s nothing you need to do. However, it’s important to know that as R-410A is phased out of new systems, it will become more difficult and costly to find.
If you need a new HVAC system soon, this transition will have a more immediate impact. After January 1, 2025, you will no longer be able to purchase a system that uses R-410A refrigerant.
Safety Concerns and Regulations
A2L refrigerants are safe when handled and used correctly. However, homeowners should remain aware that different types of A2L refrigerants have different flammability levels, with some even being more explosive than R-410A. Professionals like those at Harris Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric have the tools, skills, and expertise to handle refrigerants and replace or repair your air conditioner safely.
Benefits of the Transition
Although these transitions take time and may initially come with increased costs, they ultimately benefit the environment and homeowners. You’ll reduce your carbon footprint. With the increased efficiency of A2L refrigerants, you’ll also save on your monthly energy costs and extend the lifespan of your system.
Choose Harris Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric for Your HVAC Needs
If you want to replace your HVAC system, the experts at Harris Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric can help. Our team can answer any questions about phasing out R-410A and help you determine which HVAC system is right for you.
We encourage you to stay informed about this transition. As R-410A becomes less available, we can help you move toward a more sustainable system that’s better for your home and the environment.
Schedule HVAC replacement or installation in McKinney with the experts at Harris Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric. Call us or schedule online to get started.
