HVAC Refrigerant Changes In 2025

Changes are coming to the refrigerants that are allowed to be used in HVAC systems, starting in 2025. Instead of using the same refrigerants that we did in the past, like Freon and Puron, HVAC systems will now be designed to use refrigerants with a lower global warming potential (GWP). GWP is a measure of how much a gas contributes to global warming, which is what this new refrigerant requirement intends to reduce. 

 In this article, I’ll tell you more about the upcoming refrigerant changes, and how you can approach replacing your HVAC system. 

If you want to talk to someone right away, give John Cipollone Inc. a call at (610) 446-7877, or contact us online. One of our team members will be able to answer your questions about the upcoming HVAC changes, and address any of your concerns. 

Why Are There Refrigerant Changes In 2025?

When air conditioners and heat pumps operate, they use a refrigerant. This gas is harmful to the ozone, and as part of the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020, these more harmful refrigerants are being phased out. 

The government HVAC refrigerant mandate, initiated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is set to take effect on January 1, 2025. This mandate will begin to phase out production of R-410A (Puron) refrigerant and halt Puron equipment production in residential-type HVAC systems, replacing it with R-454B (also known as Puron Advance) and R32. These gases are far less harmful to the environment.

Puron has a GWP of 2088, whereas Puron Advance has a GWP of 466. That’s SIGNIFICANTLY lower, and will reduce the impact the HVAC system has on the environment by around 75%. 

Should You Replace Your HVAC System Before The 2025 Changes? 

When it comes to the refrigerant requirements, you should consider if it’s time to replace your HVAC system. There are a few factors that come into play that we think you should know about and consider: 

Prices Will Increase In 2025

Prices are always increasing, and this change in refrigerants only accelerates that increase. Due to this,  new equipment requires additional technology that is a bit more expensive to produce. We are anticipating price increases between 10-30%. 

If you have been thinking about replacing your heating or cooling system, doing it before this price increase could be beneficial. Puron systems are still available, and the refrigerant, though it is being phased out, will still be available for years to come. Replacing your system before this phase out starts could save you hundreds, or even thousands of dollars. 

Is Your System New?

If you have a new HVAC system, you probably don’t have to worry too much about this. As we said, Puron is still around and your system should be working well for a few more years. We recommend you have your system serviced regularly to prolong its lifespan, and prevent issues like leaks and losses in energy efficiency. 

Is Your System Older?

If you have an older HVAC system that is ready to be replaced, talk to an expert now. You can receive free estimates for a new system, and get a gauge of what it may cost if you wait until the new year to get a newer model. 

Benefits To Replacing Your HVAC System Before 2025

If you decide to replace your HVAC system before the refrigerant changes of 2025, here are a few of the benefits: 

• Lower Installation Costs – The longer you wait to replace your HVAC system, the more expensive it will be, with price increases coming as soon as early 2025. 
• Availability – There are plenty of options, because there are still plenty of systems available. Once the new requirements go into effect, the choices for HVAC systems will begin to shrink. 

Benefits To Waiting Until The New Year

Just as there are benefits to acting now, if your system can wait until the new year, there may be some incentive to install a system that uses Puron Advance. 

• Increased Energy Efficiency – This new refrigerant is extremely efficient, and could help reduce the cost of operating your system. 
• Lower Environmental Impact – These gases have about a quarter of the GWP that the older refrigerants do, making them much better for the environment. 
• Set For The Future – These newer systems are much less impactful on the environment, and will likely be within the regulations for years to come. 

What Should You Do If You Need To Replace Your HVAC System? 

The biggest piece of advice we could give you is to talk to a professional. Get a free estimate! It costs you absolutely nothing but a bit of your time. Especially if you need to replace your air conditioner next year, if you wait until the Spring it could be too late and the prices have already gone up. 

An HVAC professional will be able to take a look at your home, and give you the best options when it comes to replacing your heating or cooling system. At John Cipollone Inc., we like to give our customers different options based on the style of system they prefer, and the level of energy efficiency they are looking for. 

We will be able to let you know the cost of a system if you replace it now, versus waiting a few months, or even a year to replace it. Give us a call at (610) 446-7877, or contact us online. One of our experts will be able to help you with any questions you may have!