Your Guide to the Freon Changes Coming Soon to A/C Systems—Should I Wait or Change Now?
At Woolley Home Solutions, it’s part of our job as your trusted local New Jersey fuel delivery and HVAC service provider to keep you informed about any upcoming changes to your equipment. We want you to know the facts before you make any decisions about your home comfort, so that you’re choosing whatever option is best for your home, family, and budget. That’s why today our experts are going to be sharing everything we know about the changes to the freon in your air conditioning equipment. Keep reading to learn more!
What You Need to Know about the New Freon Coming to A/C Systems
Why Is My Freon Changing?
A phaseout of the refrigerant commonly known as freon, R22, has been going on for years, with a non-toxic, non-flammable refrigerant called R410A acting as its replacement. R410A is now being phased down because of the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020. This law gradually reduces the use of existing classes of refrigerants and establishes new requirements for the refrigerants used in central air conditioners and ductless mini-splits1.
What Is the “New Freon”?
Refrigerants called R454B or R32 are the “new freon” and they belong to a class of refrigerants commonly referred to as A2Ls. R454B and R32 will be classed as mildly flammable but safe when handled correctly, meaning that new gauges, specialized safety training, and storage requirements will be needed to mitigate risks; this means an increase in costs associated with handling and training for equipment that utilizes them.
What Are the Deadlines for the Transition to A2Ls?
Residential and light commercial air conditioners and heat pumps that are manufactured after January 1, 2025 must utilize A2Ls as their refrigerants2. Equipment manufactured before this date has a one-year grace period to be installed, meaning a deadline of January 1, 20263. Existing air conditioning and heat pump equipment is not subject to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations and can continue to be used4.
Should I Wait to Upgrade My A/C or Change Now?
The new cooling equipment that will be manufactured after January 1, 2025 will be the first generation utilizing R454B or R32, and we are still learning about it just like you are. We hope to have any outstanding questions about the new A2Ls cleared up within the next five months. If you’re experiencing frequent issues with your current central A/C or ductless mini-split system resulting in repair calls, it might be a good idea to upgrade now. Remember that we’re only a click or phone call away if you have additional questions or need more guidance.
Related Post: Is Ductless A/C a Good Fit for My New Jersey Home?
Need an A/C Upgrade Now? Contact the Pros at Woolley!
Our team of HVAC experts here at Woolley Home Solutions is ready to help with all your A/C needs. We proudly offer top-quality installations and service for a variety of central and ductless mini-split A/C models for our customers here in the Greater Maplewood area. Give us a call at (973) 762-7400 or request an estimate online today—we’ll help keep you comfortable all year round!
1National Association of Home Builders
2, 3, 4ICCSafe.org
