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 changes to your equipment. Changes to refrigerant standards are reshaping how homeowners maintain and upgrade their air conditioning systems. As older refrigerants are phased out, and new options take their place, it’s important to know how these updates might impact your current A/C system’s performance, repair costs, and replacement decisions. Here’s what you need to know to keep your home comfortable and your cooling system up to date.
What You Need to Know About Changing Refrigerants in A/C Systems
Why Freon Is 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-splits.1
Understanding New Refrigerants & Their Cost
Refrigerants called R454B or R32 are the new standard and belong to a class of refrigerants commonly referred to as A2Ls. R454B and R32 are mildly flammable but safe when handled correctly, meaning that new gauges, specialized safety training, and storage requirements will be needed to mitigate risk. This means an increase in costs associated with handling and training for equipment that utilizes them.
A2Ls Transition Deadlines
Residential and light commercial air conditioners and heat pumps manufactured after January 1, 2025, will utilize A2Ls as their refrigerants.2 Equipment manufactured before this date has a one-year grace period to be installed, with a deadline of January 1, 2026.3 Existing air conditioning and heat pump equipment is not subject to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations and can continue to be used.4
When to Upgrade Your A/C System
With rising manufacturing costs driving up equipment prices industry-wide, upgrading your system now will help you avoid paying more down the road. If you’ve been experiencing frequent issues with your current central A/C or ductless mini-split system, resulting in repair calls, now’s a smart time to take action and lock in today’s pricing before costs climb further.
Our technicians are certified and trained, and our equipment has been upgraded to handle the new refrigerants and modern A/C systems. 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 are 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 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!
1 National Association of Home Builders
2, 3, 4 ICCSafe.org
