It’s here! The new 2025 EPA guidelines for refrigerants have officially been rolled out to the HVAC industry, causing homeowners around the world to wonder what exactly is changing. After the R-22 refrigerant phase-out in 2020, regulations began to emphasize the importance of refrigerants with reduced environmental impact. As of this year, the newest mandate requires HVAC manufacturers to use R-454B. While this doesn’t directly impact homeowners with older systems, it will come into play when it’s time for a replacement.
In this article, the experts at Tyler Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration LLC provide a Connecticut HVAC guide to these industry changes and discuss how homeowners will be impacted by the new guidelines.
R-454B vs. Other Refrigerants
R-22 is an ozone-depleting refrigerant that has a high global warming potential or GWP. For this reason, it hasn’t been manufactured or imported since 2020. Its replacement was another A1 refrigerant– R-401A. This refrigerant does not deplete the ozone but still has a high GWP. As of 2025, R-410A will no longer be used as the industry switches to R-454B, an A2L refrigerant. Not only does this refrigerant not deplete the ozone, but it has a much lower GWP than its predecessors making it the most environmentally friendly option.Â
Which HVAC Systems Use Refrigerants?
These 2025 refrigerant changes will impact a wide range of HVAC system types including central air conditioners, ductless mini-splits, and heat pumps.
Why Is HVAC Equipment More Expensive?
Homeowners who choose to make an HVAC system upgrade in 2025 may notice an increase in prices. This is due to a variety of reasons. New refrigerant regulations and updated efficiency standards have made the largest impact on cost, as the development of these new systems requires a significant investment. On top of this, issues like increased raw material costs, supply chain disruptions, labor shortages and more have led to increased costs at a time with higher consumer demand.
What Does the Refrigerant Change Mean for Homeowners?
As we mentioned, homeowners with HVAC systems that use older refrigerants won’t be forced to ditch their old systems, but repairs and maintenance may be more expensive as parts and older refrigerants become more difficult to find.
By choosing to upgrade your HVAC system to one that meets these new refrigerant mandates, you can experience many benefits, including:
- A reduced carbon footprint
- Superior energy efficiency
- Lower energy bills
- Easier and more cost-effective repairsÂ
- Future-proof complianceÂ
Tips for Maintaining Your Existing AC System
If your current AC system is still working efficiently and effectively, you can delay the need for a new system by performing routine maintenance. This includes DIY tasks like replacing filters every one to three months and cleaning the outdoor compressor, as well as scheduling professional maintenance annually. With our AC tune-ups, we’re able to catch and fix minor issues proactively to reduce your risk of breakdowns and keep your system working for many years to come.
Finance Your AC Replacement in Fairfield
Ready to upgrade? At Tyler, we’re proud to offer financing options to customers looking to replace their current system. A new AC is a major investment, but with options from Synchrony and Energize CT, you can pay off your new equipment in manageable payments over time.
Choose Tyler Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration LLC
New EPA refrigerant guidelines are changing the HVAC industry and Tyler is here to make sure you get the services you need. As a family-owned and -operated company with 30 years of experience, our NATE-certified technicians are known for providing personalized care for all your HVAC needs. We always provide upfront pricing and free estimates on replacements. Ask about our military, veteran, and senior discounts to save even more.
If you’re ready to replace the AC system in your Fairfield or New Haven home, contact the team at Tyler today.
