September 5, 2025
2025 HVAC Refrigerant Change: What Every Homeowner Should Know
The HVAC business is about to face one of the largest changes in decades. As of January 1, 2025, the refrigerant R-410A, one of the most commonly used refrigerants for use in air conditioning has been manufactured for new equipment. Instead, newer refrigerants which are more environmentally friendly like R-32 and R-454B will be used.
If you own a home in California or anywhere else in the United States, this change is impacting you right now. Not only will this affect future HVAC systems, but there are new safety July and regulations. There are new safety regulations in move and must be considered because these new refrigerants are classified as A2L or mildly flammable so only licensed HVAC professionals should legally and safely handle these refrigerants.
In this blog, we will discuss anything and everything you need to know about the 2025 refrigerant update, what it means for you the homeowner, and why you should always use certified professionals like RB HVAC Inc.
Why Is R-410A Being Phased Out?
R-410A has been the standard refrigerant for quite some time, but its potential to contribute to Global Warming Potential (GWP). Environmental regulations and the EPA’s emphasis on lower-impact refrigerants has led to the x phase-out of R-410A.
- Environmental impacts: R-410A traps heat in the upper atmosphere significantly more than alternates.
- Global regulations: The Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol increments toward lower amounts of higher-GWP refrigerants and is required throughout the world.
- Cleaner alternatives: R-32 and R-454B use less GWP and still operate efficiently.
Ultimately, the phase-out is designed to preserve the world for everyone while their homes remain cool.
Meet the New Refrigerants: R-32 and R-454B
As R-410A steps aside, two main refrigerants are taking its place:
R-32
- Lower GWP compared to R-410A
- More energy efficient
- Widely adopted worldwide
- Classified as A2L: mildly flammable
R-454B
- Even lower GWP than R-32
- Compatible with many existing HVAC designs
- Promoted by major manufacturers as a long-term replacement
- Also A2L: mildly flammable
Both refrigerants are safer for the environment but come with one challenge: flammability. That’s why the law now restricts their handling to licensed professionals.
What Does A2L Flammability Mean?
A2L classification means:
- A= low to toxic (safe levels to inhale some amount)
- 2L = modestly flammable (not explosive, but flammable)
That makes proper storage and leak detection and all types of handling extremely important! HVAC technicians are trained and certified to service these refrigerants to ensure all precautions are in place.
Why Homeowners Shouldn’t DIY Freon Handling
Homeowners may think about “topping off“ their refrigerant or doing DIY work to AC systems. With the 2025 update, this practice is considerably more dangerous!
- Let‘s take a look at why: Legal Prohibition: It is illegal to handle A2L refrigerants unless you are certified.
- Safety Issues: The possibility of explosion increases if a flammable refrigerant is involved.
- Warranty Issue: DIY HVAC work typically voids HVAC manufacturer warranties.
- Damage: Overcharging refrigerant or mishandling refrigerants can do irreversible damage to your AC unit!
You and your home comfort are important! Leave refrigerant handling work to a professional. Call RB HVAC Inc.
What Happens to Existing R-410A Systems?
If your HVAC system still uses R-410A, don’t worry—it won’t suddenly stop working in 2025. However, here’s what you need to know:
- Repairs and recharging: R-410A will still be available for servicing existing systems for a limited time.
- Cost increase: As production declines, the price of R-410A will rise.
- Future replacements: If your unit is older, it may be more cost-effective to upgrade to a new system designed for R-32 or R-454B.
How Homeowners Can Prepare for the 2025 Update
You can stay ahead of the game by going through a few quick steps:
- Arrange for HVAC inspection – Have a technician assess the health of your current system.
- Plan for future replacement – If your system is over 10 years old, you may want to consider moving to a new compliant model.
- Ask about refrigerants – When buying a new system, verify the refrigerant it utilizes (R-32 or R-454B).
- Use certified service – Always rely upon licensed HVAC contractors for refrigerant service.
Why Choose RB HVAC Inc.
At RB HVAC Inc., we know how vital it is to keep your home comfortable, safe, and compliant with the latest HVAC updates. Our certified technicians are certified, trained and licensed to work with the new A2L refrigerants. When you choose RB HVAC, you’ll get:
- Safe and legal refrigerant service
- Energy-efficient system installations
- Environmentally-conscious solutions
- Dependable repairs and maintenance
Don’t gamble with the 2025 refrigerant revision – use the experts who put safety and the customer’s needs first.
Conclusion
The 2025 Freon update will have a big impact on homeowners. With the phase-out of R-410A and new refrigerants emerging like R-32 and R-454B, it is vital to use licensed HVAC installers when possible or service your HVAC system with licensed professionals.
DIY handling of refrigerants can be dangerous, illegal, and costly in the long run. Licensed professionals who use certification programs like industry leaders RB HVAC Inc. help to keep your systems safe, efficient, and handle refrigerants according to current codes and regulations.
👉 Keep your head on a swivel. Contact RB HVAC for inspections, upgrades, or refrigerant services using refrigerants you can trust.