AC and Heating
To Support the United States’ broader strategy for combating climate change, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is implementing new regulations that restrict the use of high global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants commonly used in HVAC systems. With these standards taking effect on January 1, 2025, this guide from Climate Control Solutions / Airrex USA answers your top questions to help you stay informed and prepared.
How Did We Get Here?
It all started with the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act of 2020.
Signed into law under the Trump-Pence Administration and supported by the Biden-Harris Administration, the AIM Act is a bipartisan effort to reduce the production and use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)—powerful greenhouse gases with high GWPs.
The EPA was directed to implement a phased reduction through a refrigerant transition and allocation program over the next decade. The 2025 HVAC refrigerant changes are part of this timeline.
What Are the Key Changes?
Beginning January 1, 2025:
- Refrigerants with a GWP above 700 will be phased out in new HVAC equipment.
- The industry will shift from R-410A (GWP ~2,000) to lower-GWP refrigerants such as R-454B, R-466A, and R-32.
What Does This Mean for the HVAC Industry?
With global air conditioning usage expected to triple by 2050, reducing environmental impact is essential. Today, HVAC systems consume about 20% of building electricity, making efficiency a top priority.
Millions of units across the U.S. already use next-gen refrigerants, and over 10 states have adopted rules consistent with the upcoming EPA standards.
Who Is Most Affected, and When Do I Need to Act?
- Manufacturers must ensure all new residential and commercial air conditioners and heat pumps produced after Jan. 1, 2025 comply with the new refrigerant rules.
- Distributors and suppliers can continue selling older models manufactured before Jan. 1, 2025 until Dec. 31, 2025.
Should I Upgrade Now or Wait for R-454B Models to Expand?
The right time to upgrade depends on your current equipment and customer needs.
If you’re facing costly repairs, switching to a unit with an approved refrigerant now could be more cost-effective in the long run. Manufacturers are ramping up production, and new models will become increasingly available throughout 2024.
Need guidance? Climate Control Solutions is here to help you determine the best timing based on equipment condition and product availability.
How Will This Affect HVAC System Costs and Supply?
As R-410A is phased out, its price is likely to increase due to reduced production.
In contrast, R-32 and R-454B are designed for greater efficiency, potentially lowering energy costs over time. Initial equipment investments may be higher, but supply and pricing should stabilize as production scales up.
Stay in touch with Airrex USA to monitor developments in refrigerant and equipment availability.
What Are the Specs of R-454B Compared to R-410A?
| Feature | R-410A | R-454B |
|---|---|---|
| GWP | 2,088 | 466 |
| Usage in U.S. | Since 1996 | Early rollout phase |
| Charge Method | Liquid only | Liquid only |
| Drop-in Replacement? | N/A | No |
| Safety Classification | A1 | A2L |
| Flame Propagation | No | Yes, low flammability |
| EPA GWP Compliance (<750)? | No | Yes |
| System Efficiency | 100% | >102% |
| Cost ($/lb.) | $5.03 | $12.89 |
| CO₂ Emissions (kg CO₂-eq.) | 17,263 | 15,008 (13.1% lower) |
Airrex USA Is Ready to Support Your Transition
Whether you’re a technician, supplier, or end-user, being proactive now helps minimize disruptions later. Climate Control Solutions & Airrex USA are committed to helping you stay EPA-compliant with expert advice, high-quality equipment, and trusted service.
We’re already updating our product lines. Below is a list of current Airrex units using R-410A and their R-454B-compliant replacements:
Don’t wait until the last minute.
Contact Climate Control Solutions today to start preparing for the 2025 EPA refrigerant regulations and keep your operations running smoothly.
