Replacing Your AC’s R-410A Refrigerant and Its Impact on AC Services in Hampton Bays
The air conditioning industry is starting to undergo a significant change, shifting to new HVAC refrigerants mandated by the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020. The goal is for the HVAC field to slowly replace the current class of coolants while also establishing new guidelines for the refrigerants used in the manufacturing of central air conditioners and heat pumps. The new class of refrigerants has a lower environmental impact compared to the coolants currently used.
As you can imagine, this will significantly alter how HVACsystems are marketed and maintained. But will your current air conditioner be impacted? The total home comfort Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can help you learn more. We’ll offer information about the reason why the AC coolant R-410A is being replaced and how it could affect you.
For extra details, read or download our full information packet!
Understanding the Existing HVAC Coolant Rules
This summer, 2024, will be important to this shift. R-410A production has already been reduced by 40%, putting upward pressure on the cost of both servicing existing units and buying new air conditioners. Most HVAC manufacturers have begun to update their current AC and heat pump units over the season, preparing for the 2025 deadline, when they will have to fully stop the creation of units with R410A.
Starting in January 2025, all new AC systems and mini-split heat pumps will be required to be designed with the new class of A2L-class coolants in mind. Servicing for current and older R410a units will still be available, but over time, the supply of refrigerant will become harder to find and its price will rise. But that leads to the question: Why IS R-410A getting the boot?
Why Is R-410A Being Eliminated?
R-410A is far and away the most common coolant, having been used for many years as the standard for conventional AC systems. Unfortunately, new research has shown that this refrigerant contains a significant amount of a substance known to lead to climate change. To combat this, in September 2021 the EPA put out its specific strategy to significantly limit R-410A use. The initiative mandates the introduction of A2L, a a type of new refrigerants.
This isn’t the first time the field has needed to adapt to new eco-friendly standards. Most AC systems used to use R-22 refrigerant before it was also replaced by R410a. Sound complicated? Well, it is. The cycle continues as our government works to minimize the impact these substances have on our environment.
The coming class of A2L coolants are, like previous refrigerants, non-toxic. There is one clear difference, however. This new A2L refrigerants are slightly flammable. However, the average homeowner has no cause for concern as the newest air conditioners using A2L have been designed with the utmost safety in mind.
Which Refrigerant Does My Home AC Use?
To determine which refrigerant your cooling system needs, begin by looking at the label on the external unit or for the info in your AC guide. This tag usually shows the refrigerant used, along with other vital information like unit specifications and other details. If you can’t locate the information you need, don’t hesitate to contact 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 choice in recent cooling systems. If your air conditioner was installed after 2010, there’s a strong possibility it uses R410a. Look for a sticker or label on the external unit that indicates “R410a”.
R-32: R-32 is another recent A2L-class refrigerant, used for a smaller impact on the environment.
R-22: R-22 was the common choice 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 use R-22.
R134a: R134a is less frequent in household air conditioning, and is more common in the air conditioning used in cars.
If your air conditioner was put in in 2010 or before…
You probably have an air conditioner that still uses R-22. Working with R-22 systems will be more expensive as replacement refrigerant becomes scare. Homeowners with old R-22 systems will need to think about replacing it with one that’s more efficient and environmentally-friendly. It’s still possible to replace your system with one using R-410a, but you should keep in mind that the supply of R-410A is starting to deplete. You could also replace the older system with a brand-new A2L-based system, and you have Expert local support from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to help you navigate this confusing home comfort headache.
If your AC unit was put in after 2010…
You probably have a system with R410a. There’s no need to schedule replacement right away, but remember that as R410a refrigerant runs out, service costs for these units will continue to rise.
Selecting the Correct Coolant with Support from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing
By thoughtfully choosing your new or replacement air conditioner or heat pump, you can ensure you get the most cost-effective cooling comfort for your home. The total home comfort Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can help you find the ideal system for your home, so request your appointment today.
