Refrigerant mandates coming in 2025 WILL affect homeowners
You may have heard that as of Jan. 1, 2025, the manufacturing of new residential and light commercial air conditioners and heat pumps containing R-410A refrigerant will be prohibited in the United States. This transition aims to reduce the environmental impact of high global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants.
And while we’re all about supporting the environment — and this is a great long-term solution — we’re also focused on offering the greatest advantages possible to our customers. With that in mind, we’re encouraging everyone to take advantage of the one-year grace period where contractors like Nebrasky can continue to install existing R-410A systems until Dec. 31, 2025.
There are still several advantages to having an R-410A HVAC unit installed before the end of 2024:
- Cost: Currently, R-410A systems are generally less expensive than newer systems using refrigerants like R-32 or R-454B. This is because the technology is well-established and production is still relatively high. Manufacturers will face higher production costs as units with lower global-warming-potential (GWP) refrigerants require new designs, parts, and safety features. Homeowners may see up to 30% higher prices for new HVAC systems.
- Efficiency Standards Tied to Refrigerants: It’s possible that future efficiency standards for heat pumps might be tied to the type of refrigerant used. This means that R-410A systems might not be eligible for federal tax credit or state rebates after 2024, even if they meet the current SEER2, EER2, and HSPF2 requirements.
- Federal Tax Credits: The current tax credits for HVAC systems are set to expire at the end of 2024. While there’s a possibility of extension or new credits in the future, it’s not guaranteed, and they likely won’t include systems using R-410A.
- Availability: Although production is being halted, replacement parts and R-410A will still be readily available for servicing existing units. Finding technicians familiar with R-410A systems is also easier right now.
- Efficiency: R-410A systems can be very efficient (comparable to new systems, and especially compared to older systems using R-22 refrigerants).
Don’t Get Stuck with Higher HVAC Costs
Act now to avoid paying 30% more for your new or replacement HVAC system!
Upgrade your system now before all pre-2025 models are gone to lock in current prices, rebates, and tax credits, and enjoy efficient, reliable performance with an R-410A model.
Contact Nebrasky Plumbing, Heating & Cooling today for a free consultation. Our experts will help you choose the right system and ensure a smooth transition.
