Refrigerant laws have changed for 2025 and implementation is already happening across the industry. You can keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the 2025 refrigerant changes for air conditioners and heat pumps.
Then give our team a call to schedule your appointment for an HVAC system upgrade when the time is right. Keep in mind that these refrigerant changes don’t impact your existing system, so there are no steps you need to take right now.
Environmental Impact of Refrigerant
Refrigerant is precisely what allows an AC or heat pump to cool down the air. Refrigerant channels through the coils and absorbs heat from the air, then releasing it outdoors. In the case of a heat pump, the system can also bring heat into your home. Despite this great application, refrigerant is not great for the environment. In fact, experts deem that it has a high global warming potential (GWP).
This measure is used to gauge the environmental impact of a substance over a 100-year period. Refrigerant isn’t harmful in the airtight lines of the system, but. damage to the coils can leave refrigerant leaking out. A tiny leak may not seem like a big deal, but over the years it can add up to a big environmental impact.
Key Changes for 2025
The Environmental Protection Agency set a goal of decreasing the negative impact of refrigerants by 85% by the year 2036. One step in toward this goal was enacted in 2020 when refrigerant changes were made.
Now, five years later, new goals are being be put in place once again to ensure we continue taking baby steps with the advancement of industry technology. The new refrigerants being introduced this year include R-32, R-454B, and R-1234yf. Each one is gaining traction as a known alternative that has a lower environmental impact.
HVAC System Changes
These changes do not impact HVAC systems currently in place. You don’t have to make any adjustments to the AC or heat pump you’re currently using. Changes will be for future HVAC systems – those being installed beginning this year. If you’re in the market for a new unit in the near future, your system will have the new refrigerant discussed above.
Most ACs and heat pumps will last between 10 and 15 years. If your current system falls in that age range, you may be interested in upgrading sooner. A new air conditioner or heat pump will offer you benefits including:
- Lower energy expenses
- Better overall operation
- Lower environmental impact
- Manufacturer’s warranty
- Peace of mind
Energy Efficiency Ratings
If you are invested in reducing your carbon footprint, there is another step you can take. Check the energy efficiency ratings for any HVAC system you purchase. For an air conditioner or a heat pump set to cooling mode, this rating is called SEER2. A heat pump in heating mode is assigned an HSPF2 rating and a furnace is assigned an AFUE rating.
When you’re ready to upgrade your system, we can talk to you about each of these ratings and help you decide what the best option is for your expectations. A more energy efficient unit means that less energy gets consumed over the course of a month, lowering your carbon footprint.
It’s time to schedule maintenance with the experts at Comfy Heating & Air Conditioning Inc.