Uncategorized February 18, 2025

2025 Refrigerant Changes: How It Impacts Your Virginia Home

You already know how important your air conditioner or heat pump is to your home during the summer, but you probably haven’t given any thought to the type of refrigerant your system uses. This year, there are major changes to the refrigerants being used in HVAC systems, and they may affect you as a homeowner in 2025 and beyond. Read on for more information on the 2025 refrigerant switch and what it means for your home HVAC system.

Why Did HVAC Refrigerants Change in 2025?

Like most HVAC systems in Northern Virginia, your current HVAC system likely runs on the refrigerant R-410A. Due to regulatory action by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), HVAC systems manufactured in 2025 and thereafter will not use R-410A and will use R-454B or R-32 instead.

The EPA’s phase-out was instituted due to the known negative environmental impact of R-410A, measured by its high Global Warming Potential (GWP) score. Its replacements are known to be less dangerous to the environment yet still effective in HVAC systems.

New Refrigerants: R-454B & R-32

R-454B’s GWP score is 466, approximately 78% lower than its predecessor. It is also an A2L refrigerant, so it has the benefit of lower flammability and toxicity in both outdoor and indoor use.

R-32 refrigerant is used more commonly outside the United States, but Northern Virginia residents will still be able to find systems that use it. It is another A2L refrigerant that is energy efficient and balances optimal performance with lower environmental impact.

Benefits of these refrigerants feature:

• Improved safety profile
• Operational efficiency
• Long-term stability

Overall, these new refrigerants represent an improvement for the environment and for homeowners.

How Will the Change Impact Me?

If you’re concerned about the R-410A phase-out, know that your old system will still be serviceable for some time. R-454B does not typically require extensive retrofits or upgrades to replace R-410A in older systems. However, as the newer systems are designed differently, it will gradually become more difficult and expensive to find the parts to fix and service R-410A systems.

If you’re in the market for a new air conditioner or heat pump, it’s essential to note that all systems manufactured in 2025 and afterward will have to use R-454B, and that sale of systems that use the old R-410A will be prohibited starting in 2026.  

Choose Our Team for Expert HVAC Services

It can be tough to find honest answers about the 2025 refrigerant changes and what it means for Virginia homeowners. Parrish Services is your trusted source for the facts on the situation, as well as the quality HVAC services you need. We’re still able to provide professional repair and maintenance for your older system—and when it’s time to make the upgrade we’ll walk you through the benefits of the new R-454B systems and help you select the one that best fits your needs.

To schedule any HVAC service or a consultation on 2025 refrigerant changes, contact our team today.