HVAC Changes: Your 2025 Refrigerant Update
Whether you’re a homeowner or an HVAC professional, it’s important to stay on top of industry updates that could affect safety and unit operation. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is making some changes, including a 2025 refrigerant update intended to benefit our planet. As old refrigerants are phased out and new refrigerants are introduced, you’ll need information and perhaps a service call to stay in compliance.
- Understanding the new refrigerant changes in 2025
- What is R-454B refrigerant?
- How the new changes affect homeowners
- Upgrading your HVAC system
- Champion Air’s HVAC installation services
Here’s what you need to know about R-401A, new HVAC system options, and why these updates will help improve energy efficiency.
Looking for a New AC System?
Sometimes change is just what your home has been waiting for. Upgrading to a new AC system can help improve air quality, boost efficiency, and even lower your utility bills. At Champion Air, our technicians are trained to evaluate your needs and recommend a system that works for you. To see our team in action, book a service call today.
Understanding the New Refrigerant Changes in 2025
Two air conditioner refrigerants, R22 and R410A, have long been considered the gold standard for chemical coolants by HVAC industry professionals. But along the way, scientists discovered that both options were flawed. R22 was first restricted in 2003 before being completely prohibited in the United States 7 years later.
R410A replaced R22, but now the EPA recognizes the refrigerant’s high global warming potential and has recommended another change. The American Innovation and Manufacturing Act (AIM) includes regulations that ban imports of R410A-reliant air conditioning products into the US starting January 1, 2025. Instead, manufacturers must start building with new standard refrigerants in mind, including R32 and R454B.
What Is R-454B Refrigerant?
R-454B refrigerant is a type of hydrofluorocarbon gas that helps your air conditioner cool air to make your home more comfortable. This particular refrigerant is considered a more eco-friendly choice than its predecessors, R22 and R410A. That’s mostly due to a low global warming potential and zero ozone depletion potential.
R-454B is also more energy efficient than bygone refrigerants. It is, however, flammable and should only be handled by qualified professionals.
How the New Changes Affect Homeowners
The new HVAC refrigerant mandates could lead to a price increase of 30% or more for new HVAC system purchases. Consumers looking for new HVAC units in 2025 may encounter supply chain issues. Those looking to retrofit existing HVAC systems to be new-refrigerant compatible may face steep maintenance charges.
On the plus side, units adhering to the 2025 refrigerant mandate should:
- Have a lower environmental impact and help reduce the carbon footprint associated with your home
- Be more energy efficient, cooling your home faster and decreasing your monthly utility bills
- Last longer, since they’re already EPA-compliant and shouldn’t need to be retrofitted or replaced anytime soon
Eco-Friendly and Energy-Efficient Upgrades for Your HVAC System
This shift is essential to the future of HVAC systems as environmental rules become more stringent and the demand for energy-efficient solutions increases. Phoenix’s extreme heat puts a lot of strain on air conditioning systems, making environmental impact and efficiency crucial issues. In an area where cooling is crucial, switching to R-454B not only guarantees adherence to current requirements but also lowers energy costs and the environmental impact.
Champion Air’s HVAC Installation Services
Get ahead of the 2025 HVAC changes today with a new HVAC installation courtesy of Champion Air. Replacing your current unit may be easier than you think. Our expert team knows how to source the right system for your needs, including recommending the appropriate refrigerant replacements and HVAC upgrades. Plus, continuing education and hands-on training mean every technician is up-to-date on industry changes and fully equipped to handle everything related to 2025 refrigerant updates.
Ready to Upgrade Your Current Air Conditioner?
When it’s time to upgrade to a newer, EPA-compliant air conditioner, call Champion Air. With 24/7 emergency and same-day services, we can help turn a costly repair into a more valuable AC replacement. Stop putting a band-aid on problem after problem and get a new system that will have your HVAC running like a champion for years to come.
