Replacing Your AC’s R410a Coolant and How It Impacts HVAC Service in Denver
The HVAC industry is starting to undergo a big transition, moving toward new HVAC refrigerants as part of the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020. The goal is for the cooling industry to systematically eliminate the current class of coolants while also establishing new requirements for the refrigerants used in the design of central AC units and heat pumps. The next generation of refrigerants has a lower environmental impact than the refrigerants currently in use.
As you can expect, this will drastically alter how HVACsystems are offered and repaired. But will your present AC unit be impacted? The total home comfort Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can provide more details. We’ll offer details about the reason why the AC coolant R410a is being replaced and how it could affect you.
For all the details, read or download our full information packet!
Understanding the Existing HVAC Refrigerant Regulations
This summer, 2024, will be important to this change. R410A production has already been reduced by 40%, causing an increase on the cost of both repairing current AC systems and purchasing new AC systems. Most HVAC manufacturers have started to update their existing AC and heating units over the summer, preparing for the 2025 deadline, when they will have to fully end the creation of units with R410A.
Starting in January 2025, all new AC systems and mini-split heat pumps will need to be designed with the next generation of A2L-class coolants in mind. Maintenance for older and current R410a AC systems will still be possible, but over time, the supply of refrigerant will become scarce and its price will rise. But that leads to the question: Just WHY is R-410A getting the boot?
Why Is R410a Being Eliminated?
R-410A is far and away the leading refrigerant, having been used for decades as the standard for central AC systems. Unfortunately, new research has shown that this refrigerant contains high levels of a compound known to lead to global warming. To deal with this, in September 2021 the EPA issued its comprehensive outline to significantly reduce R-410A consumption. The plan requires the use of A2L, a a type of new refrigerants.
This isn’t the first time the industry has had to change to evolving eco-friendly standards. Most AC systems used to use R-22 refrigerant before it was also replaced by R-410A. Sound complicated? Well, it is. The cycle continues as our government try its best to minimize the impact these substances have on our environment.
The newest class of A2L coolants are, like past refrigerants, non-toxic. There is one major difference, however. The new A2L refrigerants are mildly flammable. That being said, the average homeowner has no cause for concern as the newest air conditioners with A2L have been designed with the highest safety standards in mind.
Which Refrigerant Does My Home AC Use?
To find out which refrigerant your cooling system uses, try looking at the tag on the outdoor unit or for the info in your owner’s manual. This label usually shows the refrigerant used, along with other vital information like model number and other details. If you can’t get 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 identify your refrigerant type as well as its age.
R410a: R410a is the most widespread option in modern AC units. If your air conditioner was installed after 2010, there’s a good chance it contains R410a. Look for a sticker or label on the outside unit that says “R410a”.
R-32: R-32 is another newer A2L-class refrigerant, selected for a smaller impact on the environment.
R-22: R-22 was the standard refrigerant for many years, but it’s already been phased out due to its negative impact on the ozone layer. If your cooling system is more than 15 years old, it may still contain R-22.
R134a: R134a is rarely found in residential cooling systems, and is more usual in the air conditioning used in cars.
If your cooling HVAC system was set up in 2010 or before…
You probably have a cooling HVAC system that still contains R-22. Service for R-22 systems will be costlier 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 current systems with one using R-410a, but you should keep in mind that the stock of R-410A is starting to run out. You could also swap out the older AC with a new A2L-class unit, and you have Expert local service from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to help you figure out this confusing home comfort headache.
If your air conditioner was installed after 2010…
You most likely have a system that uses R410a. You don’t have to schedule replacement right away, but keep in mind that as R410a refrigerant runs low, service expenses for these units will only grow more expensive.
Choosing the Right Refrigerant with Support from Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing
By carefully picking your new or replacement AC unit or heat pump, you can ensure you get the most energy-efficient comfort for your home. The total home comfort Experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can help you discover the ideal system for your home, so request your appointment today.
