The HVAC industry is undergoing a major shift in 2025 due to upcoming refrigerant regulations. If your commercial or industrial facility relies on R-410A or R-404A, now is the time to plan for the transition.
WHAT’S CHANGING AND WHY IT MATTERS
By January 1, 2026, new HVAC systems will be required to use lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants, such as R-32 and R-454B. This transition is part of the EPA’s AIM Act, which aims to phase down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) to reduce their environmental impact.
For businesses, this means:
Long-Term Cost Implications – While newer refrigerants may lead to improved efficiency, businesses should plan for initial upgrade expenses.
Limited Availability of Older Refrigerants – Costs for R-410A and R-404A will rise as supplies dwindle.
Equipment Transition – New HVAC systems will be designed to use low-GWP refrigerants, which require updated components.
Regulatory Compliance & Training – Companies must ensure their teams are trained on new refrigerant regulations. Our technicians have completed the required refrigeration safety training through ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America) to stay ahead of these changes.
WHAT ARE LOW-GWP REFRIGERANTS?
The shift to low-GWP refrigerants is essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Here are the primary alternatives replacing R-410A and R-404A:
R-454B: A promising alternative to R-410A, designed for improved energy performance and reduced environmental impact.
R-32: Already widely used in Europe and Asia, R-32 has a lower GWP and higher efficiency than R-410A.
HOW THIS AFFECTS EXISTING HVAC SYSTEMS
If your facility currently operates on R-410A or R-404A, here’s what you need to consider:
Energy Efficiency Gains: Upgrading to a new system may offer lower energy costs and improved performance.
Servicing Existing Units: Older refrigerants will become harder to find and more expensive.
System Compatibility: New refrigerants are not always backward-compatible, requiring equipment modifications or replacements.
KEY DEADLINES AND NEXT STEPS
- January 1, 2025 – Phase-out of manufacturing new R-410A and R-404A systems begins.
- January 1, 2026 – All new installations must comply with low-GWP refrigerant standards.
- Ongoing – Existing systems using phased-out refrigerants can still operate but will face increasing maintenance costs.
PREPARING FOR THE TRANSITION
To stay ahead of these changes, businesses should:
Stay Informed on Regulatory Updates – Ensure compliance with the latest EPA and Michigan state guidelines.
Audit Current HVAC Equipment – Identify units that rely on phased-out refrigerants and assess replacement needs.
Plan for Budget Adjustments – Factor in the cost of refrigerant supply changes and potential system upgrades.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The transition to low-GWP refrigerants is an industry-wide shift that will shape HVAC systems for years to come. Proactive planning will help businesses navigate these changes efficiently while optimizing long-term energy performance.
For more information on how these refrigerant changes impact your HVAC systems, contact Robertson Morrison, Inc. to discuss your options before the 2026 refrigerant transition deadline.