If you’re planning to upgrade your HVAC system, there’s a major change you need to know about: the refrigerant used in most air conditioning units — R410a — is being phased out. This change, driven by EPA environmental regulations, will impact new HVAC installations, repair costs, and the future of your cooling system.
Starting January 2025, R410a-based air conditioning units will no longer be manufactured or installed. Instead, homeowners will need to switch to newer, more environmentally friendly refrigerants like R-32 or R-454B. While these newer refrigerants have lower global warming potential (GWP), they come with a higher upfront cost.
At Millian Aire AC & Heating, we understand that navigating HVAC changes can be confusing, especially with new regulations impacting your options.
Our experienced team is here to help you choose the best system for your home, ensuring that you stay comfortable and energy-efficient while making a smart investment for your future.
In this guide, we’ll explain why R410a is being phased out, how this change will impact homeowners, and what you need to know about new refrigerants to make an informed decision about your HVAC system upgrade.
What’s Happening with Air Conditioning Refrigerants?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is introducing new regulations to reduce the use of greenhouse gas-emitting refrigerants, including R410a, which has been the standard refrigerant for air conditioning systems for years.
Starting in 2025, manufacturers can no longer produce or install new R410a-based systems.
This means that homeowners planning to replace their air conditioning systems need to be aware of these changes and the cost implications of switching to new refrigerants.
The phase-out is part of a global push toward more sustainable solutions in the HVAC industry. The new refrigerants, such as R-32 and R-454B, have lower global warming potential but come with higher upfront costs for homeowners.
Why Is R410a Refrigerant Being Phased Out?
The EPA has been working to reduce the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are used in refrigerants like R410a because they contribute to global warming.
R410a has been the most commonly used refrigerant in residential and commercial air conditioning systems, but it has a high global warming potential (GWP). When it is released into the atmosphere, it traps heat, contributing to climate change.
This is why the EPA is phasing out R410a and encouraging the adoption of newer, more sustainable refrigerants with lower environmental impact.
Key Dates for the Phase-Out
The R410a phase-out timeline includes several key dates that homeowners need to be aware of:
- End of 2023: No new R410a-compatible systems can be manufactured or installed after this year.
- End of 2025: The EPA will stop the production and import of new R410a refrigerant.
What does this mean for homeowners?
If you have an existing R410a system, you can continue to use it, and reclaimed refrigerants will be available for repairs. However, as the supply of R410a dwindles, repair costs will increase.
How Will This Change Impact Homeowners?
The R410a phase-out will have a direct impact on homeowners, particularly those who are considering a new HVAC system or upgrading their current system.
Here’s what you need to know about the availability of R410a-compatible systems, the cost of new refrigerants, and the future of your existing system.
Limited Availability of R410a-Compatible Systems
As the phase-out deadline approaches, manufacturers have already limited production of R410a-compatible units. This means that supplies are running out.
If you want to install an R410a-based system, you’ll need to act quickly, as older models are still available but in limited supply.
After this year (2025), your only option will be new systems that use R-32 or R-454B refrigerants.
The Cost of Newer Refrigerant Systems
One of the biggest concerns for homeowners is the cost of newer refrigerant systems.
While new refrigerants like R-32 and R-454B are more eco-friendly, they come at a higher price point. Homeowners can expect new systems to be 10–15% more expensive than R410a-based systems.
However, the upfront cost is offset by energy savings. Newer systems are more energy-efficient, which can help reduce long-term energy bills.
What Happens to Existing R410a Systems?
If you already have an R410a-based system, don’t worry — you can continue using it.
However, as the supply of R410a dwindles, homeowners may see higher service costs for repairs and maintenance.
Most R410a refrigerant will be reclaimed from old units, rather than newly produced, which could impact availability and cost.
What Are the New Refrigerants?
As R410a is phased out, new refrigerants like R-32 and R-454B are becoming the standard in the HVAC industry. These eco-friendly alternatives have a lower environmental impact and are already being used in newer air conditioning systems.
1. R-32 Refrigerant
R-32 is one of the leading replacements for R410a.
- It has a lower global warming potential (GWP) than R410a.
- R-32 refrigerant is more energy-efficient, reducing energy consumption and operating costs.
- Many new HVAC models are already using R-32 refrigerant.
R-32 refrigerant is becoming a popular alternative due to its lower environmental impact and improved energy efficiency. Many HVAC manufacturers, including Trane, have started using R-32 in their latest systems.
2. R-454B Refrigerant
Another alternative is R-454B, which has an even lower environmental impact than R-32.
- R-454B refrigerant is being adopted by manufacturers like Trane for their next-generation HVAC systems.
- It’s designed to reduce emissions and provide greater energy efficiency.
Trane has already begun rolling out new systems that use R-454B, a more environmentally friendly refrigerant that reduces the environmental impact of your HVAC system.
Should You Upgrade Your HVAC System Now?
As of January 1, 2025, R410a-based systems can no longer be manufactured or installed, and supplies of older units are completely gone. Homeowners who need to replace their HVAC systems must now switch to units that use newer refrigerants like R-32 or R-454B, which are 10–15% more expensive than the older models.
If you have an older R410a system, it’s important to consider that repair costs will continue to rise and will eventually make sense to replace the unit rather than repair it.
Since new R410a refrigerant is no longer being produced, reclaimed refrigerants will be used to service existing systems. However, as reclaimed supplies dwindle, service costs will increase significantly.
For homeowners looking to avoid costly repairs and future-proof their home, upgrading to a new refrigerant-compatible system now is a smart move. The new units are more energy-efficient, which can help offset the higher upfront costs with long-term savings on energy bills.
At Millian Aire AC & Heating, we’re here to make the HVAC upgrade process easy and help you maximize your investment. Upgrading now not only gives you access to available R410a-compatible systems, but also helps you avoid future repair headaches and unexpected expenses.
If you’re looking to save money on your next HVAC system, consider upgrading to an R410a-compatible unit before the end of 2025.
Once they’re gone, your only option will be more expensive systems that use newer refrigerants. Millian Aire AC & Heating can help you find the best solution for your home before the deadline.
Trane’s New Refrigerant-Compatible Systems
As the HVAC industry transitions to new refrigerants, Trane has been at the forefront of developing refrigerant-compatible systems that offer exceptional performance and eco-friendly benefits.
Trane’s new HVAC systems are compatible with R-32 and R-454B refrigerants, ensuring that homeowners can enjoy reliable cooling while reducing their environmental impact. These next-generation systems are energy-efficient, helping homeowners save on energy bills over time.
At Millian Aire AC & Heating, we specialize in helping homeowners choose the right HVAC system for their needs and budget. Our expert technicians can guide you through the refrigerant switch, making sure your home is prepared for the future with a modern, efficient HVAC system.
Act Now to Prepare for the Refrigerant Switch
The upcoming phase-out of R410a refrigerant is one of the most significant changes in the HVAC industry in recent years. Homeowners who are planning to replace their air conditioning system or schedule repairs should be aware of how this refrigerant switch will impact their choices and costs.
R410a systems are still available, but supplies are limited. Once they’re gone, homeowners will need to upgrade to newer, more expensive systems that use R-32 or R-454B refrigerants.
At Millian Aire, we’re here to help homeowners navigate these changes. Our HVAC experts can recommend the best system for your home, ensuring that your air conditioning system is reliable, efficient, and future-proof.
Alan Wilson is a hands-on HVAC expert with extensive experience in the industry. At the University of West Florida he earned an Associate of Arts in 1999. He then went on to graduate cum laude from the University of Florida in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sports Sciences.
Alan’s expertise is a resource for the community—he appeared on a local morning show last year to talk about a fun “Ugliest AC Competition” that Millian Aire ran to offer a free HVAC unit to the community. Originally from California, Alan has lived all over the country, but he’s called Florida home since 2008. He jokes that Florida’s getting a little crowded these days, but he wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.
As for the future of HVAC, Alan sees tremendous opportunities in integrating solar energy with heating and cooling systems. He believes some industry fears—like the switch to flammable refrigerants—are overblown. He’s poised to adapt and innovate to stay ahead of the curve. Alan’s down-to-earth leadership and passion for his work make him a trusted name in the HVAC business
