What Sacramento Area Homeowners Should Know

The HVAC industry is preparing for a major shift in refrigerants, driven by the need to reduce environmental impact. After 2024, the use of R-410A refrigerant will no longer be used in new HVAC equipment. This change is part of a broader initiative to lower the Global Warming Potential (GWP) of the refrigerants used in our homes. In place of R-410A, two new refrigerants—R-454B and R-32—will become the standard, offering more eco-friendly solutions.

Why Are These Changes Happening?

R-410A, a common refrigerant in many air conditioning systems, has been recognized for its efficiency but also for its high GWP of 2,088. To combat climate change, new regulations under the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act mandate the phaseout of high-GWP refrigerants like R-410A. As a result, the industry is moving toward refrigerants with significantly lower GWP values:

• R-454B: This refrigerant has a GWP of approximately 465, making it a much greener option while still providing reliable cooling performance.
• R-32: Already popular in various countries, R-32 has a GWP of 675 and is noted for its high energy efficiency, especially in mini-split systems.

What Does This Mean for Sacramento Area Homeowners?

After 2025, new HVAC systems will no longer use R-410A, although existing systems can still be serviced with it. Systems containing R-454B and R-32 are projected by manufacturers to be 20-30% more expensive. If you’re considering upgrading your system, now is the ideal time to act before prices increase.

Secure an Estimate for R-410A Units While They Last

Rocklin Heating & Air is here to help you navigate these changes. If you’re thinking about upgrading your air conditioning system, we encourage you to get an estimate for an R-410A unit before they are phased out. If you want to take advantage of the lower R-410A system pricing, be proactive and explore replacement while these systems are still available. Reach out to us today for a free in-person estimate.