Big Changes Ahead: What You Need to Know About the Shift to R454B Refrigerant in HVAC Systems
As 2024 progresses, the HVAC industry is preparing for a significant transition. A change is coming that will impact both homeowners and HVAC professionals—the shift from R410A (Puron) refrigerant to a more environmentally friendly alternative, R454B. At Modern Sheet Metal, we want to ensure you stay informed and prepared for this upcoming change.
We’ll break down what this switch means for you, why it’s happening, and how it could affect your next HVAC purchase.
Why Is the HVAC Industry Changing Refrigerants?
This refrigerant switch is part of a global initiative to reduce the environmental impact of older refrigerants, particularly hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). In 2016, the UN Montreal Protocol Kigali Amendment laid out a plan to phase down HFCs, which are commonly found in refrigerants like R410A, due to their contribution to global warming. In response, the HVAC industry has developed R454B, also known as Puron Advance, which has a lower global warming potential (GWP) and is better for the environment.
Beginning in late 2024, R454B will replace R410A in all newly manufactured HVAC systems to meet these environmental goals. This change is in line with the EPA’s SNAP (Significant New Alternatives Policy) program, which ensures that the alternatives meet both environmental and safety standards.
What Does This Mean for Homeowners?
Here’s what you need to know if you’re a homeowner with an existing HVAC system or if you’re in the market for a new one:
- Price Increases Are Coming With the switch to R454B, prices for new HVAC systems are expected to rise by Q3 or Q4 of 2024. While the new refrigerant is more eco-friendly, it doesn’t necessarily mean better performance or energy efficiency for your system—it’s simply a necessary change to meet industry standards. So, if you’ve been considering upgrading your HVAC system, now is the time to do it before prices go up.
- R410A Will Still Be Available for Repairs If your current HVAC system uses R410A, there’s no immediate need to worry. R410A will still be available for repairs for many years to come, meaning you don’t have to rush out and replace your system just because of the refrigerant switch. Well-maintained HVAC systems typically last 15 to 20 years, so your system should be covered for its lifespan.
What Is R454B Refrigerant?
R454B, also known as Puron Advanced, is a next-generation refrigerant designed to replace R410A. It maintains similar performance levels but has a much lower GWP, meaning it contributes less to global warming. This makes it a better choice for the environment while keeping your home comfortable.
With more manufacturers adapting their systems to work with R454B, this new refrigerant will soon become the standard in both air conditioning and heat pump systems.
What You Should Do Now
If you’ve already received an HVAC estimate or are thinking about getting a new system, it’s wise to act before the price increase hits later this year. This price hike isn’t unique to Modern Sheet Metal—it’s an industry-wide change.
By getting ahead of the transition, you can ensure that you’re locking in the current pricing for your new system, avoiding the potential higher costs that will come with the switch to R454B.
Trust Modern Sheet Metal for Your HVAC Needs
At Modern Sheet Metal, we’re here to help you navigate these changes. Whether you have questions about R454B refrigerant, need advice on whether it’s time to replace your HVAC system, or want to schedule a service, we’ve got you covered.
Feel free to contact us for more information, and let’s make sure your home is ready for the upcoming changes in the HVAC world!
Stay ahead of the refrigerant transition with Modern Sheet Metal. Contact us today to discuss your HVAC needs or get a quote on a new system!