Guide to SEER2

The HVAC industry has experienced a massive transformation over the past couple of years, with major regulatory shifts now fully in effect. These changes, driven by a push for higher energy efficiency and a reduced environmental impact, have redefined what new air conditioners and heat pumps look like.

As of 2025, every new system manufactured is more efficient and uses a different, more environmentally friendly refrigerant than the equipment of a few years ago.

Our team at Charlotte Heating & Air created this guide to help homeowners in the greater Mint Hill, NC, area understand these new standards and how they might impact your current system or next HVAC purchase.

Here are the topics we cover in this blog:

I Understanding the SEER2 Standard

II A New Generation of Refrigerants

III What Do These Changes Mean for Your Charlotte Home?

IV FAQ About the HVAC Changes

Understanding the SEER2 Standard

The first big change came in January 2023 with the implementation of SEER2, a new efficiency standard set by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). While you may have been familiar with the old SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating, SEER2 represents a significant step forward.

SEER2 is a new testing standard that provides a more accurate picture of how a system will perform once it’s installed. The previous SEER ratings were based on laboratory tests that didn't fully account for the pressures a system faces in a real-world home, such as a home’s ductwork.

Think of the old SEER rating like a car’s MPG on a test track, while SEER2 is a more realistic measure of the MPG you'd actually get driving on a city street!

For Mint Hill homeowners, the impact of the SEER2 standard is clear: any new air conditioner or heat pump you purchase today is required to be more efficient than its predecessors. This means you’ll use less electricity to cool your Charlotte home, which translates directly to a smaller carbon footprint and lower monthly utility bills.

A New Generation of Refrigerants

The most recent in the HVAC industry took place on January 1, 2025. On that date, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) required manufacturers to stop producing new residential HVAC equipment that uses R-410A, the refrigerant that has been the industry standard for over 15 years.

The reason for this change is all about climate impact. R-410A has a very high Global Warming Potential (GWP), which means it contributes significantly to climate change if released into the atmosphere. The EPA’s goal with this refrigerant phase-out is to reduce the manufacture and consumption of these high-GWP chemicals, and the 2025 transition is a key part of that plan.

So, what are new systems using now? The industry has moved to more environmentally friendly refrigerants with a much lower climate impact, primarily R-454B and R-32. Both are a huge improvement and align the HVAC industry with modern climate goals.

These new A2L refrigerants are classified as mildly flammable. While they are completely safe when installed and serviced by trained professionals, this change highlights the importance of choosing a certified technician who has the proper training to handle the next generation of HVAC technology.

What Do These Changes Mean for Your Charlotte Home?

These upgrades in HVAC efficiency and refrigerants affect homeowners in different ways, depending on your situation.

If You Have an Existing R-410A System

There is no need to worry. If your current air conditioner or heat pump is working properly, you do not have to replace it. The new regulations only apply to newly manufactured equipment.

• Repairs are still possible: The use of R-410A for service and repairs is still allowed, and there are sufficient supplies available. However, because production has been phased down, the cost of R-410A is steadily increasing.Why it matters: If your system develops a leak, recharging it will likely cost more than it did a few years ago, making a replacement more economically attractive over time.

• No retrofitting: A key point to understand is that your R-410A system cannot be retrofitted to use the new R-454B or R-32 refrigerants. The new refrigerants operate at different pressures and require different internal components. Attempting to convert your system would be costly and would likely cause permanent damage.

If You Are Buying a New System Today

If you're in the market for a new AC or heat pump, your options will come with the new refrigerants and meet the current SEER2 efficiency standards. These new systems are designed for greater energy efficiency and a reduced climate impact.

• Built for new refrigerants: New systems are built specifically for R-454B or R-32. Components like compressors and coils are engineered to work optimally with the new refrigerant formulations, maximizing the benefits of the new standard.
• The need for a professional: Not all HVAC companies are equipped to handle the new A2L systems. It is essential to choose a contractor with certified technicians who have completed comprehensive training to safely install and service these units.
• Long-term savings: While new equipment may have a slightly higher upfront cost, the investment is often offset by long-term energy savings and a more environmentally responsible operation.Why it matters: The combination of a more efficient system and a potentially lower electricity bill means you'll save money every month for years to come.

FAQs about the HVAC Changes

Q: Do I have to replace my existing HVAC system that uses R-410A?

No. There is no requirement to replace a working system. The regulations apply only to new equipment manufactured after January 1, 2025.

Q: Can I use the new R-454B or R-32 refrigerant in my old R-410A system?

No. The systems are not compatible, and you cannot simply retrofit an old system with the new refrigerant.

Q: Is R-410A still available for repairs?

Yes. R-410A is still available for service work and is expected to be for many years to come, but its price is steadily increasing due to the phase-down in production.

Q: What is the benefit of the new SEER2 standard?

The SEER2 standard requires newly manufactured units to be more energy-efficient, which means lower electricity consumption for cooling and potential savings on your utility bills.

Q: Are the new refrigerants safe? Yes. The new A2L refrigerants are classified as mildly flammable, but they are safe when handled and installed by certified professionals who have the proper training and equipment.

How May We Help You?

Our team at Charlotte Heating & Air looks forward to sharing new information about HVAC systems with all our customers in Mint Hill, NC, and the surrounding areas. We’re glad to help you make an informed choice and help every step of the way. Schedule a free consultation today—call us at 704-330-3177 or request service online.