Refrigerant

BIG SUMMER SAVINGS ARE HERE

BIG SUMMER SAVINGS ARE HERE

Call us today at 203.227.5181 or visit gaultenergy.com/ac-savings to schedule an in-home consultation with one of our Comfort Specialists.

If you haven’t read our last blog, here is a recap….

Another Refrigerant Change Is Here.

Over 15 years ago, the EPA began phasing out R-22 refrigerant, which is commonly used in air conditioning systems. This year, the EPA has added to that banned refrigerant list - R-410A, which was the EPA’s recommended refrigerant to replace R-22.

Now, the industry is being directed to manufacture systems that only use R-454B, a refrigerant with a significantly smaller impact on global warming than the previous two, and has increased energy efficiency.


Should I repair or replace?

A new system will ultimately be in everyone’s future, but as with previous refrigerant phase-outs, there is a runway of time before 410A refrigerant and replacement parts are depleted. For now, homeowners will need to consider whether their system is worth repairing or it’s time to replace it.

Here are some things to consider:

Repair

Less than 2 repairs in the last 3 years
System worked great last year
Less than 10 years old
Refrigerant & parts readily available

REPLACE

Annual refrigerant refills
Poor cooling performance
More than 10 years old
It’s an R-22 system


*Offer ends 5/31/2025. Offer limited to one per household. Does not apply to previously quoted AC units. Offers cannot be redeemed as a cash payout. Purchase must be a complete AC system including a condenser, air handler or cooling coil, and refrigeration line.

Refrigerant Changes are Happening in your AC System

Important Information For All Air Conditioning Equipment!

The EPA has mandated that all air conditioning equipment manufactured after January 1, 2025, use R454B refrigerant.

R454B has a significantly lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) than R410A. There are no ozone-depleting compounds, it has low toxicity compared to past refrigerants, and it has proven to be more energy efficient in the US Department of Energy testing.

FAQs on The EPA’s Latest Refrigerant Change


Can I still buy a R410A system?

Yes, but only for a limited time. HVAC manufacturers are shifting production to R-454B systems, and R-410A models will no longer be available after the transition. If you buy an R-410A system now, you may face limited availability for equipment and servicing in the future.

 

Do I need to replace my current system?

No, you do not need to replace your current system as long as it still runs efficiently.

  • If you still have an R22 system, we no longer provide this refrigerant due to this phase-out being complete.

  • If you have an R410A system, replacement parts and the refrigerant are currently available.

In either case, as your system ages and nears replacement or begins to require costly repairs, you will need to consider your options.

 

Can you retrofit my current system?

Most systems currently installed do not meet the system requirements for R-454B, so retrofitting is highly unlikely.

 

Installation changes with R454B systems

Due to the EPA’s guidelines regarding R-454B, installation of your air conditioning equipment will look a bit different.

  • System piping (lines) – different sizes required

  • Concealed lines can no longer be used (hidden in wall cavities)

  • Additional leak sensors required

  • Permitting may be required

  • Carpenters may be necessary to gain access to run new lines


Servicing a R454B system

Maintenance recommendations on R-454B systems remain the same as existing systems and will be available under our current Cooling Protection Plan. For our technicians, they will be required to utilize some new tools and procedures to work with the refrigerant.


Have additional questions?

Our Comfort Specialists are here to guide you through this transition. Please contact our office at 203.227.5181 to begin the conversation.