Refrigerant Changes in the HVAC Industry

Written on behalf of Moreau's Heating & AC - Lake Charles AC Repair Company

Attention home and business owners: The HVAC industry is receiving noteworthy updates, and Moreau's Heating & AC is here to inform you about what's ahead.

A significant change is occurring with refrigerants in air conditioning systems. Unlike previous transitions, this one is more abrupt and will affect manufacturers and consumers.

Refrigerant Chanes in the HVAC Industry?

Refrigerants are being updated to meet new environmental standards. For example, refrigerants with high Global Warming Potential (GWP) and Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) are being phased out. GWP measures how much a refrigerant contributes to global warming compared to carbon dioxide. For instance, a refrigerant with a GWP of 100 means 100 pounds of that refrigerant has the same warming effect as 100 pounds of carbon dioxide.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is legislating a phase-out of refrigerants with a GWP above 750. Currently, R410A has a GWP of about 2000. While the complete phase-out isn't expected until around 2040, manufacturers will stop producing R410A equipment by the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025. This means that if you have an R410A system, you may need to consider upgrading to a system that uses the new refrigerants. However, R410A replacement parts and refrigerant will remain available for some time.

What are the New Refrigerants?

R32 is a new refrigerant being adopted by manufacturers like Daikin, Amana, and Goodman. R32 can be topped off with R454B if needed, although the best practice is to recover the old refrigerant and recharge with R454B. Blended refrigerants, such as R410A and R454B, typically have a blend ratio like 70/30 or 60/40.

R32 is classified as an A2L refrigerant, meaning it is only mildly flammable and requires an external source to ignite. This means that in the event of a leak, R32 poses more of an occupational hazard than a consumer risk. However, it's important to note that all refrigerants, including the ones currently in use, should be handled with care and in accordance with safety guidelines.

Efficiency and Adoption

R32 systems are more energy-efficient as they require a lower charge compared to older refrigerants. This promising feature, coupled with the successful global use of R32 for over a decade, brings optimism about the future of your HVAC systems.

What Does This Mean for You?

While these changes may seem significant, there is no immediate need to rush into replacing your HVAC system. If you are considering an HVAC upgrade, understanding these new refrigerants can help you make an informed decision about future-proofing your system. Future-proofing means choosing a system that is compatible with the latest technologies and regulations, ensuring that your system will remain efficient and compliant for years to come.

At Moreau's Heating & AC Repair in Lake Charles, we are here to help you navigate these changes and find the best solutions for your HVAC needs. If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to contact us.