Refrigerants are essential to all HVAC systems. These fluids help your air conditioning and heat pump equipment cool down warm air, keeping your home or business comfortable.
While refrigerants are necessary, they contain hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) that can contribute to global warming. Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has introduced new EPA refrigerant regulations. 2025 is the year they begin to take effect.
The EPA aims to protect the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions that damage the ozone layer. The new regulations focus on phasing out older refrigerants with high global warming potential (GWP) and promoting more energy-efficient, environmentally friendly options.
For homeowners and businesses in Rockwall, TX, these regulatory requirements won’t immediately impact your current HVAC system, but it’s still important to be aware of the changes coming. At Lyons Air & Heat, we’re committed to keeping you informed about updates in the HVAC industry so you can make the best decisions for your heating and cooling needs.
If you’re looking to upgrade your air conditioning system or have questions about how these new environmental standards will affect your home and budget, call our HVAC technicians at (214) 432-2859 or reach out online today.
Overview of the New Refrigerant Regulations for HVAC Systems
The new EPA refrigerant regulations are changing the future of air conditioning and heat pump systems. In an attempt to reduce Hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) emissions, current refrigerants like R-410A will be slowly phased out. As of January 1, 2025, HVAC equipment manufacturers must use low GWP refrigerants in new systems.
This means that existing systems will continue to be serviced with their existing refrigerant for the foreseeable future, but the production and availability of high-GWP refrigerants will decrease over time. As a result, maintaining older systems may become more expensive as R-410A becomes harder to find.
If you’re considering upgrading to a new HVAC system, now is a good time to explore energy-efficient options that comply with the latest EPA regulations. Our certified technicians can answer all your air conditioner installation questions to give you peace of mind before making the switch.
What is the New Refrigerant Called?
In 2025, the HVAC industry will transition to new, environmentally friendly refrigerants, including R-32 and R-454B. These refrigerants have a much lower global warming potential than R-410A, making them a better choice for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting the ozone layer.
R-32 is already being used in some refrigeration and air conditioning equipment. It is highly efficient, has a low global warming potential, and has zero ozone depletion potential.
R-454B is another promising option for new EPA-compliant systems. Because it has such a low environmental impact, it is quickly becoming the standard for many HVAC equipment manufacturers.
Why are These Changes Happening?
The new EPA refrigerant regulations are designed to support a more sustainable future by reducing harmful chemicals entering the atmosphere.
These changes are part of the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020, which includes regulations aimed at phasing down refrigerants with high global warming potential and encouraging safer, more eco-friendly alternatives. The new HVAC requirements align with a global agreement to combat climate change.
Benefits of Switching to Newer Refrigerants
Enhanced Energy Efficiency
New refrigerants are designed to improve the performance of air conditioners and heat pumps, making them more energy efficient. These refrigerants require less energy to cool or heat your home, so you’ll see cost savings on your energy bills over time.
Additionally, by reducing energy consumption, these systems help lower your carbon footprint, contributing to a more sustainable way of living. While the initial cost of upgrading to a new HVAC system might seem high, the long-term energy savings make it a worthwhile investment.
Better Environmental Impact
Switching to newer refrigerants is part of a global effort to combat climate change. By reducing the use of ozone-depleting substances in HVAC systems, we can significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions.
This transition supports cleaner air and a healthier planet, helping homeowners and businesses take meaningful steps toward protecting the environment. High-efficiency systems powered by these newer refrigerants are key to creating a more sustainable future.
Modern HVAC Technology
New HVAC equipment designed for updated refrigerants offers more than just compliance with regulations—it provides advanced technology and features for enhanced comfort.
Modern systems run more quietly than older models, giving you a more peaceful indoor environment. They also include high-efficiency features, such as smart controls and improved air circulation, ensuring better performance and convenience.
Upgrading to new equipment meets new environmental standards and enhances the overall quality of your heating and cooling system.
Key Dates and Deadlines
The compliance date for the new EPA refrigerant regulations is January 1, 2025. Starting then, new HVAC systems will be manufactured with low-GWP refrigerants like R-32 and R-454B to meet the new standards.
Field-assembled systems have a one-year grace period, allowing them to be installed until January 1, 2026. For systems that don’t require field assembly, such as window air conditioning units, the final date of sale is January 1, 2028—three years after the initial compliance date.
While older refrigerants like R-410A will be phased out over the next decade, existing equipment will still be serviced with these refrigerants for the foreseeable future. This approach gives homeowners and businesses time to transition while ensuring current systems remain operational.
How Much Will These Changes Cost Me?
These changes won’t immediately impact your current central AC unit, so there’s no need for urgent upgrades. However, new HVAC systems will require specific equipment to work with the low GWP refrigerants, which are mildly flammable.
To handle this safely, new systems will include advanced safety features, such as refrigerant leak detection systems. These are designed to monitor refrigerant concentration and provide alerts if refrigerant leaks occur, ensuring safety and preventing emergency air conditioning repairs.
Because of the specialized equipment and added safety measures, the initial cost of new systems will likely be higher. The good news is that these HVAC systems are far more energy efficient, which can significantly reduce your energy bills over time, providing long-term cost savings.
Do I Need to Replace Existing HVAC Systems?
The phase-down of older refrigerants will happen gradually over the next decade, so if your current HVAC system is running well, there’s no need to upgrade right away. However, it’s important to know that the new low GWP refrigerants are incompatible with most existing air conditioners. So, as older refrigerants become harder to find, you may need to retrofit your system or consider installing a new air conditioner.
Retrofitting older systems may not be cost-effective, as the expense could outweigh the benefits. In that case, upgrading to a new, high-efficiency system designed for the latest refrigerants might be the better option.
Our certified technicians can handle all aspects of the AC replacement process, ensuring your new system is EPA-compliant and running smoothly for years to come.
How Lyons Air & Heat Can Help You Navigate the 2025 Refrigerant Regulations
Lyons Air & Heat is the Rockwall HVAC company you can trust to guide you through the new refrigerant regulations.
Our team is here to help you make informed decisions about your heating and cooling needs, whether you’re considering a new AC installation, scheduling air conditioning tune-ups, or exploring an HVAC maintenance plan to extend the life of your system. We offer all types of residential and commercial HVAC services in Rockwall, TX and the surrounding areas, ensuring your system runs efficiently and stays compliant with the latest EPA guidelines.
We’re dedicated to helping local homeowners and business owners keep their HVAC systems in top shape, and with our upfront pricing, you’ll know exactly what to expect when it comes to your heating and cooling needs.
Contact Our Experienced Rockwall HVAC Pros at Lyons for Help with Refrigerant Compliance
If you have questions or concerns about the new EPA refrigerant regulations and how they might affect your HVAC system in Rockwall, TX, the team at Lyons Air & Heat is here to help.
Whether you’re considering upgrading to a new system, maintaining your current one, or just need advice, we’re ready to provide expert guidance and solutions tailored to your needs.
Call Lyons Air & Heat at (214) 432-2859 or reach out online to schedule a service with our skilled Rockwall HVAC technicians today!
