HVAC Refrigerant Change Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Why HVAC Prices Will Increase in 2025

The American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act was passed in 2020 authorizing the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to reduce the production of HFCs (chemicals made of hydrogen, fluorine, and carbon) by 85 percent within the next 15 years.

These chemicals are believed to contribute to global warming and other environmental issues, which is why the EPA will begin phasing out the use of R-410A refrigerant. Starting January 1, 2025, the EPA will begin the refrigerant phase-out process in residential and light commercial air conditioning products. This change in refrigerant will increase the cost of new HVAC units by up to 15 to 30 percent.

Beginning in January new residential air conditioners and heat pumps are required to use A2L refrigerants. The HVACS manufactured before this date using R-410A refrigerant have a one-year installation grace period.

What is Refrigerant?

Refrigerant is a chemical compound used in heat pumps and air conditioners that changes temperature when it transitions between a liquid and gas state. It absorbs and transfers heat, allowing the system to cool your home or business by circulating through the HVAC unit. The evaporator coil absorbs the indoor heat and then releases the heat to the outdoor air in the condenser coil by changing from liquid to gas.

How Refrigerant Works

• Absorbs Heat: the refrigerant circulates through the AC system, alternating and absorbing heat from indoor air and releasing it outdoors.
• Phase Transition: the refrigerant passes through the evaporator coil indoors absorbing the heat from the indoor air, causing it to change from a liquid to a gas.
• Compression: the AC compressor compresses the gas refrigerant causing an increase in temperature and pressure.
• Condensation: the refrigerant flows to the condenser coil located outside. It then condenses back into a liquid state, releasing the heat it absorbed from inside to the outdoor air.
• Expansion: the liquid refrigerant then passes through an expansion valve where it drops in pressure allowing it to evaporate and absorb heat again in the indoor evaporator coil.

What This Means and What You Can Do

The new HVAC units that are A2L compliant are more expensive because the A2L refrigerant is expected to raise manufacturing costs that will be passed onto the consumer.

This may be a good time to consider the lifespan of your unit. HVACS last about 10-12 years in the Low Country. If you think your HVAC unit is nearing its lifespan, contact one of our comfort specialists today to schedule an appointment. We will help you determine if it's time to replace your HVAC and which unit is right for your home or business.

Call (843) 681-3999 today to schedule an appointment with one of our E.A.C. Heating & Air Comfort Specialists.