Is 410A Refrigerant Going Away?

The Short Answer

The 410A refrigerant is not going away, but will see a decrease in production by 15% by 2036, making prices potentially higher within the next decade.

Phase Down vs. Phase Out

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), we are entering a phase down for R-410A refrigerant. Unlike the phase-out of R-22, R-410A will still be produced, but its production levels will be significantly reduced.

By 2036, R-410A production will be limited to 15% of the levels seen in 2022. This news is reassuring for homeowners with R-410A systems, as it ensures that the refrigerant needed to maintain their HVAC systems will be available throughout their lifespan.

Price Implications

While the phase down is positive in terms of availability, there’s a caveat: the price of R-410A refrigerant will likely increase. However, these price hikes are expected to be less dramatic than what we witnessed with R-22.

The Environmental Factor: GWP

The driving force behind these changes is the global warming potential (GWP) of R-410A. This refrigerant contributes to greenhouse effects, prompting the EPA to set standards for reducing GWP in refrigerants. Their approach involves a multi-step plan, with the ultimate goal of transitioning to more natural refrigerants with zero GWP as technology evolves. The new refrigerants will have a GWP roughly one-fifth that of R-410A.

Meet the New Refrigerants

Manufacturers are shifting their focus to two primary alternatives: R-454B and R-32. Concerns have been raised about the fire hazard associated with these refrigerants. However, both R-454B and R-32 fall under the A2L classification. Manufacturers have addressed safety concerns by developing devices to mitigate potential hazards. Third-party testing, in collaboration with the International Association of Fire Chiefs, has found no significant danger from A2L refrigerants compared to A1 (R-410A) in home applications.

Timeline for Implementation

Expect to see these new refrigerants hit the market by the end of the year. By 2026, they will become the standard for complete system replacements. After that, manufacturers will still be allowed to produce R-410A components, but as dealers, we’ll only be able to install single components rather than full systems with R-410A.

In Summary

While this transition is swift, it promises to be smoother than the shift from R-22. Your HVAC system will have the necessary parts to last until total replacement becomes practical. The EPA’s considerations extend beyond air quality—they aim to minimize the impact on your wallet as well.

About Yarbrough & Sons Heating, Cooling & Plumbing: Yarbrough & Sons has been serving Oklahoma City since 1988, providing top-notch home comfort solutions. With over 450 years of combined experience, our family-owned business is dedicated to quality, comfort, and caring for our community. Trust us for all your HVAC needs.