Refrigerant Mandate

To combat global warming and adhere to new environmental standards, residential HVAC systems will soon use refrigerants with lower global warming potential (GWP). Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming changes, their impact on homeowners in Arizona, and the best time to transition to a new system.

Government HVAC Refrigerant Mandate

The EPA has mandated that starting January 1, 2025, HVAC systems will phase out R-410A refrigerant, replacing it with R-454B and R-32, depending on the manufacturer. This aims to reduce the environmental impact of HVAC systems by requiring refrigerants with lower GWP.

Current HVAC Systems

If your system uses R-410A, service parts and refrigerants will remain available, but new R-410A systems will become scarce. Transitioning to a system with the new refrigerant before 2025 can avoid up to a 30% increase in equipment costs.

Positive Impact on Homeowners

Environmental Benefits: Switching to refrigerants with lower GWP helps reduce the carbon footprint.
Energy Efficiency: New refrigerants like R32 and R454b have a 78% lower GWP, leading to lower energy bills.
Future-Proofing: Ensures long-term compliance and avoids costly future retrofits or replacements.

Negative Impact on Homeowners

Increased Costs: New systems may cost up to 30% more due to higher production costs.
Supply Chain Disruptions: Transitioning to new refrigerants may cause delays and shortages.
Retrofit Challenges: Existing systems may need expensive retrofits to be compatible with new refrigerants.
Training Requirements: HVAC technicians need re-training for new systems, potentially leading to service delays and increased labor costs.

Preparing for the Refrigerant Mandate

Act Now: Replace your HVAC system before December 31, 2024, to secure current pricing and avoid future cost increases.

Upgrade Your System with Lee Collins Trained Technicians

Lee Collins Initiatives:

Education: Ongoing training on the latest equipment and advancements.
Certification: Technicians are fully certified for new refrigerants.
Supplier Coordination: Close collaboration with suppliers to ensure seamless transitions and best prices.
Customer Transparency: Informing customers about upcoming changes, purchasing decisions, and maximizing savings through federal tax credits.

As the hottest days approach, consider upgrading your HVAC system before the year ends. Our certified technicians are ready to assist you in making the best decisions at the best cost. Contact us today to take the next step towards a more efficient future.