What Homeowners Should Know About HVAC Refrigerants

A major shift occurred in the HVAC industry on January 1, 2025, and most homeowners are likely unaware of the change.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations required manufacturers to transition to refrigerants with lower global warming potential (GWP). That meant newly manufactured heat pumps and air conditioners could no longer use R-410A, a refrigerant with a higher GWP, but had to be compatible with more environmentally friendly refrigerants. 

At Charlotte Heating & Air, we want you to understand what this means for your current HVAC system and any new upgrades. Charlotte Heating & Air is a trusted name for providing quality HVAC service in [linked-city-1], and all the surrounding communities. We keep close tabs on all industry changes and how new regulations affect our customers. 

Refrigerant Phaseout

Manufacturers began gearing up for the refrigerant change as the EPA began phasing down the import and manufacture of R-410A. The goal is to reduce the manufacture and consumption of R-410A and other hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) by 85 percent by 2036.

Beginning in 2025, all new equipment built for residential and commercial will use more environmentally friendly refrigerants, such as R-454B or R-32. The new requirement is now fully in effect nationwide, including right here in North Carolina.

Why Did Refrigerants Change?

R-410A was the go-to refrigerant for residential HVAC systems for over 15 years, but with its high GWP, it contributes significantly to climate change if leaked into the atmosphere.

To help reduce environmental impact, the EPA is phasing down the production and import of high-GWP refrigerants like R-410A. While it’s not banned entirely, its use in newly manufactured equipment is no longer allowed.

What Replaced R-410A?

In 2025, two refrigerants—R-454B and R-32—replaced R-410A in newly manufactured ACs and heat pumps. 

According to the EPA, R-454B has a GWP of 465, and R-32 has a GWP of 675. R-410A has a much higher GWP of 2,088. 

Both refrigerants are classified as A2L, meaning they’re mildly flammable but safe when installed and serviced by trained professionals. These refrigerants are better for the environment and help align HVAC technology with modern climate goals.

Our technicians at Charlotte Heating & Air are fully trained and certified to safely install and service systems using R-454B and R-32. We’ve made sure to stay ahead of the curve so you don’t have to worry.

Do I Have to Stop Using My R-410A System?

If your existing AC or heat pump uses R-410A, you can keep using it. There is no need to replace a working system just because a new refrigerant is available.

However, there are a few key things to keep in mind:

Repairs are still possible: R-410A is still available for service work, and our team continues to stock it for repairs and refrigerant recharges.

Prices are climbing: Because R-410A is no longer produced at previous levels, it is becoming more expensive. If your system develops a refrigerant leak, recharging it will likely cost more than it did a few years ago.

You cannot retrofit an R-410A system: R-410A systems are incompatible with R-454B or R-32. These refrigerants operate at different pressures and require different internal components. Even if retrofitting were possible, the cost and complexity of doing so would be close to replacing the system entirely.

Thinking About Replacing Your System?

If you’re in the market for a new HVAC system this year, your options now come standard with either R-454B or R-32 refrigerants. These systems are designed for greater energy efficiency and reduced climate impact, which can lead to lower utility bills and a smaller carbon footprint over time.

Here’s what to know if you’re buying a new HVAC system now:

System Compatibility: R-454B and R-32 systems are built specifically for those refrigerants. Components like compressors, coils, and expansion valves are designed to work with the new formulations.

Trained Technicians Required: Not all HVAC companies are equipped to work on A2L systems—but we are. Our team at [company name] has completed comprehensive training to safely install and service these next-generation units.

Initial Costs May Be Higher: As manufacturers adjust production, new systems with the updated refrigerants may carry slightly higher upfront costs. However, these are often offset by long-term energy savings and more environmentally responsible operation.

How Charlotte Heating & Air Can Help

Whether your current HVAC system runs on R-410A or you’re ready to upgrade to a newer, more efficient unit, our team is here to help you navigate the refrigerant change with confidence. Here’s how we support you:

• We still service and maintain R-410A systems.
• We stock R-410A refrigerant for repairs, while it’s still available.
• We install and maintain new R-454B and R-32 systems.
• We provide honest advice about repair vs. replacement costs.
• We offer free consultations to help you make the right choice for your home.

Call the HVAC Experts!

Whether you have a heat pump or air conditioner that uses R-410A or are ready to upgrade to a better system for the environment and your wallet, Charlotte Heating & Air is your trusted partner in [linked-city-1] and surrounding communities. Let us keep your home cool, efficient, and ready for the future, regardless of what refrigerant your system uses. Call us at 704-330-3177 or request service online.