What you need to know about the 2025 refrigerant transition.
Big changes are coming to the air conditioning world in 2025, and we’re here to help you make sense of them!
In broad strokes, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a mandate to “phasedown” hydrofluorocarbons, and it goes into effect on January 1, 2025. In this post, we’ll dive into the reasons behind the mandate, what it means for you and what we’re doing to help make upgrading your air conditioner more affordable.
What are hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and why is the EPA mandating a phasedown?
Hydrofluorocarbons are powerful greenhouse gases developed as replacements for the even more potent chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which were banned in the 1980s. Although HFCs may not be as detrimental as the CFCs they replaced, they’re still bad for the environment. That’s why the EPA is phasing down their production and consumption.
What are the costs and benefits of the HFC phasedown?
According to the EPA, “The projected emission reductions of the HFC Allocation Program from 2022 to 2050 are equivalent to 4.6 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide — equal to approximately three years of U.S. power sector emissions at 2019 levels. A global HFC phasedown is expected to avoid up to 0.5°C of global warming by 2100.”
The EPA went on to calculate that the societal benefits between 2022 and 2050 would add up to $169.9 billion (in 2020 dollars).
What does the mandate do?
Basically, it calls for a phaseout of the refrigerant seen in most existing air conditioning units. The refrigerant, R410A, is being replaced by refrigerants that are less harmful to the environment. These new refrigerants are known as R-454B and R-32, and HVAC manufacturers will begin manufacturing equipment that accommodates these new refrigerants.
What are the benefits of the 2025 refrigerant mandate?
The new refrigerants have a much lower Global Warming Potential (GWP). The GWP is a metric developed by the EPA to measure the amount of heat trapped in the atmosphere from greenhouse gases. The new lower GWP refrigerants have a 78% lower GWP than R-4120A and will help the U.S. achieve an 85% HFC phasedown by 2036.
Do I have to replace my existing air conditioner?
No, you can continue to use your existing air conditioner! This new rule restricts products that use R410A from entering the market or entering operation. In fact, you’re welcome to use and repair your system as long as it lasts. However, the availability of HFCs may be harder to find as the phasedown progresses. You can find information about substitute refrigerants here.
To extend the functional life of your heating and cooling systems, be sure to schedule a tune-up in the fall and/or spring. You can find a TVA-vetted contractor here, and save $50 with our HVAC tune-up rebate. You may want to discuss your options with your contractor while they’re taking care of your system.
Tip: Upgrade to a high-efficiency HVAC system, and you could save up to 20% on heating and cooling costs.
If your system must be replaced, be sure to check out all of our rebates on heat pumps, mini splits and central air conditioners.
