The New HVAC Refrigerant — What Homeowners Need to Know
R-454B Refrigerant: The New Standard for Home Cooling in 2025
If you’re planning to replace your air conditioner or heat pump soon, you’ve probably heard that R-410A refrigerant is being phased out. Starting in 2025, new HVAC systems are using a refrigerant called R-454B — part of the industry’s shift toward more environmentally friendly cooling. Like with any change, this can cause anxiety when selecting a new system, especially with the option to still install the older models. This article breaks down the new standards and common questions we receive at Preston’s Heating and Cooling regarding the change.
1. Why the Change?
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is phasing down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) — the chemicals used in refrigerants like R-410A — because they contribute to global warming. R-454B has a significantly lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) — about 78% lower than R-410A — while still providing efficient cooling performance.
2. What is different about R-454B?
R-454B offers similar operating pressures and performance to R-410A, but is significantly more environmentally friendly.
A common concern with the new refrigerant is it’s flammable warning. It’s a mildly flammable (A2L) refrigerant and while it can ignite with a flame, it cannot sustain the burn. Out of an abundance of caution, new systems are built to account for this. Check out the video below to see the refrigerant’s flammability in action.
3. Can You Use R-454B in Your Existing System?
No — R-454B is not compatible with R-410A systems. The oils, pressures, and components are different. If your current system runs on R-410A, you can continue using it and servicing it as normal. But when it’s time to replace your system, your new one will use R-454B. While systems built for the old refrigerant can still be found in the market to install, parts are becoming more expensive as they are no longer manufactured.
4. What Homeowners Should Expect in 2025 and Beyond
New systems installed by Preston’s Heating and Cooling from 2025 onward will use R-454B. We strive to use the most environmentally conscious products available.
R-410A refrigerant will still be available for servicing older units, but prices may increase over time as supply decreases.
Only certified HVAC technicians can safely handle A2L refrigerants like R-454B. Our team at Preston’s Heating & Cooling has been trained on these new systems and we were early adopters of the new refrigerant.
5. How This Impacts You
If your system is 15 years old or more, now is a great time to start planning your next upgrade. Installing a new R-454B system ensures:
Long-term parts and refrigerant availability
Improved environmental efficiency
Potentially lower energy bills
🌎 The Bottom Line
The refrigerant change is making cooling your house better for the environment and more efficient for those hot Cincinnati summers. At Preston’s Heating & Cooling, we’re already helping Cincinnati homeowners transition to R-454B-ready HVAC systems — ensuring safety, comfort, and compliance with new EPA standards.
Call Preston’s Heating & Cooling today to learn more about R-454B systems or to schedule your free estimate on a new air conditioner or heat pump.
