Many households rely on air conditioners to keep them cool and heat pumps to keep them warm and cool. These systems use a refrigeration process to exchange heat between the indoor and outdoor air. A downside to many refrigerants is that they can have a negative impact on the environment. In 2020, the U.S. government passed the American Innovation & Manufacturing Act (AIM). Among other things, AIM gave the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) greater control over hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) standards.
What Is R-410A?
R-410A is a refrigerant used specifically for ACs and heat pumps. Allied Signal, which would become Honeywell, developed the refrigerant and introduced it in 1991. Refrigerant manufacturers sell R-410A under a variety of trademarked names. The most notable are:
- AZ-20
- EcoFluor R410
- Forane 410A
- Genetron R410A
- Puron
- Suva 410A
Why Is There a Phase-Out?
AIM mandates the EPA to phase down and then phase out refrigerants that are harmful to the environment. R-410A doesn’t contribute to ozone depletion, and the industry once lauded it as an alternative to refrigerants that did. Unfortunately, R-410A has a higher global warming potential (GWP) than carbon dioxide (CO2). Since there are non-ozone-depleting alternatives that have a significantly lower GWP, the EPA chose to phase it out.
Phase-Down Targets
When the EPA phases out a material that’s widely used throughout the U.S., it usually doesn’t happen immediately. The EPA provides consumers and manufacturers with advanced notice. It also provides businesses with phase-down targets they must adhere to. As of January 1, 2025, HVAC manufacturers can no longer make ACs and heat pumps that use R-410A.
The EPA also decreased the amount that refrigerant manufacturers can produce annually. This provides additional motivation for HVAC brands to switch to alternatives sooner. It also decreases the national supply gradually and in a manner that limits the impact on consumers and businesses. The initial decrease was 10% in 2022. The decrease in production was 40% in 2024, and it will continue until it reaches 85% in 2036.
Alternatives to R-410A
There is a wide range of alternative refrigerants to R-410A as well as green refrigerants on the horizon. The most prevalent since the phase-downs started has been R-32. R-32 is an HCF but has zero ozone depletion potential. It also has a GWP of about one-third of R-410A.
Must Homeowners Replace R-410A Systems?
The EPA regulations grandfather in all preexisting R-410A ACs and heat pumps. That means that as a homeowner, you’re under no obligation to replace the system. For most homeowners, it will be most cost-effective to continue using their system throughout its expected lifespan.
Can You Still Purchase R-410A Systems?
Manufacturers had to stop making new R-410A systems before 2025. All units made before then are legal to sell and purchase. Depending on your area, they may be hard to find. That’s because manufacturers have long ago winded down production and offered discounts to move existing supplies. If you have the option of purchasing an R-410A unit at a discount, should you? This is something you should discuss with your HVAC technician. It could potentially save you money, but it may also open you up to increased costs down the line.
Will R-410A Get More Expensive?
Yes, the price of R-410A will continue to rise as the supply becomes smaller. The good news is that well-functioning ACs and heat pumps don’t need more refrigerant. These systems only need it if there’s a refrigerant leak. If you have an R-410A system, it’s more important than ever to schedule seasonal tune-ups and keep the system in good condition.
Retrofitting Is an Option
What if you experience a leak? If the unit is older than 10 years, consider replacing it. If not, you have two options. You can pay for the R-410A or you can have a technician retrofit the system to use R-32.
Learn More About the R-410A Phase-Out in Georgia
If you have any additional questions about the R-410A phase-out in Douglas or the nearby areas, Chancey Heating & Cooling is here to help. We have been a family-owned business in this region since 1959 and provide both residential and commercial services. We are a proud Lennox Premier Dealer but install and service all HVAC makes and models. That includes air conditioners, heat pumps, ductless mini-split systems, and furnaces. Our team installs, repairs, and cleans ductwork as well. You can also count on us for filter replacement, air balancing, air quality testing, air purifiers, germicidal lamps, and more. Request service online, or call today with any questions and to schedule an appointment.
