Refrigerant Changes

Beat the Price Increase: Update Your HVAC System Now

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has mandated a change in the refrigerant utilized in newly produced heating and cooling systems to lower the Global Warming Potential (GWP) of our industry. After January 1st 2025, manufacturers are no longer able to produce new equipment in the United States using the R410a refrigerant that has been in use for the past 20 years. For additional Third-party information regarding this transition, please click here.

While no action may be required on your end, at Hamstra Heating and Cooling, we have always taken pride in keeping our clients informed regarding changes to the HVAC industry that may affect you and the heating and cooling equipment in your home or business.

Why this change?

· As was the case in the transition from R22 to R410a, the EPA is making this change as the new A2L Class of refrigerants have a lower GWP than the current R410a refrigerant. The (2) new refrigerants that will be used are R32 and R454B.

· **Hamstra will be installing systems using the R454b refrigerant.

What is the difference between the two refrigerants and why is Hamstra using R454b?

· R454b has a 31% lower GWP than R32.

· R454b is safer in homes because it requires 3-5x more spark energy than R-32 for ignition.

· R454b operates at a lower pressure than the R32, putting less stress on the compressor and components during hot outdoor conditions.

· R454b is expected to remain in residential systems for years longer than R32.

How does this change affect you?

· If you own an R410a system, there are no current concerns regarding the future serviceability and availability of parts and refrigerant.

· Price Increases: As manufacturers have had to make modifications to their factories and the technology used to run on these new refrigerants, new equipment costs are expected be up to 20% higher than the current R410a systems.

· Regardless of what type of refrigerant your system has, Hamstra Heating and Cooling will be able to service and maintain your equipment.

Can I still get an R410a system? For how long?

· R410a systems are expected to be available through the end of 2024, and into early 2025. **This is dependent upon equipment availability.

When will the new equipment be available?

· Some models of equipment may be available prior to the January 1st date, but it is expected that most manufacturers won’t have full product availability for a few months into 2025.

What are your options?

· Be Proactive: If you have an older system, you can be proactive and replace it with an R410a system to avoid the higher costs of the systems using the new refrigerants.

· Do Nothing: You can continue to operate your existing system as normal, and service or replace as needed.

We thank you for your continued trust in our Family-Owned company to not only service and maintain your system, but also to keep you informed on changes to the industry and how they may affect you.

If you have any questions regarding the transition or would like to schedule for one of our Comfort Specialists to meet with you regarding your options, please give us a call at 520-629-9833.