2025 AC Refrigerant Changes: What You Need to Know

• News

Another round of AC refrigerant changes for standard residential and light commercial units is coming this year, and with it comes equipment changes.

This started with the 2019 Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol around global warming, which then translated into the AIM Act of 2020.

The last AC refrigerant change was from R22 to R410A (also known as Puron). R22 production ceased completely on January 1, 2020. The transition started five years prior, and new systems using 410A were available well before that time.

This change will be more accelerated, driving the last 410A systems to be manufactured this year; hard manufacturing stops January 1, 2025, and anything produced must be sold by January 1, 2028. Since manufacturers never want to be stuck with old inventory, AC systems with new refrigerants will start replacing 410A systems this year as well.

What Do the 2025 AC Refrigerant Changes Mean for Manufacturers?

Manufacturers are currently choosing between a few options from refrigerants classified as A2L. Carrier/United has chosen R454B, presumably a better long-term option due to lower Global Warming Potential (GWP). Daikin, the largest worldwide HVAC manufacturer, has chosen R32, a slightly better performing and more efficient option but with higher GWP. Some may choose R452B. These are not interchangeable, so technicians will need to carry several new refrigerants on truck in order to be prepared to perform AC repairs, which will be an added cost.

What Do the 2025 AC Refrigerant Changes Mean for Consumers?

Manufacturers are warning of 20 to 30 percent price increases for new refrigerant systems. They will attempt to recover the cost of change. This could be very significant. While there could be some small efficiency improvements with these costs, it is unlikely that they will pay back the initial investment (just a prediction). It is likely that there will be a transition period for issues and troubleshooting; however, the new refrigerants operate at similar pressures and temperatures, so this should be minimal unlike the change to 410A. 

Are the New AC Refrigerants More Flammable?

The new refrigerants are listed as “mildly flammable” – slightly more flammable than 410A. The L designator refers to low burning velocity, which means fires will also tend to burn out and not accelerate. 

FAQ: If I Need a New Air Conditioner, Should I Choose a System With One of the New AC Refrigerants?

If you’re replacing your air conditioner during this transition, is it worth taking a 410A system for less cost? Or better to pay the money for the next generation? With likely 410A availability for the next decade plus, and similarities to the new generation of AC refrigerants (particularly 454B), this is not expected to be as big an issue as the change from R22 to 410A. However, if you wish to embrace reduction in GWP, this change is for you.