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At Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we prioritize keeping our customers informed about upcoming changes in the HVAC industry that will affect the cost of cooling equipment. One significant shift on the horizon involves refrigerants which are essential for cooling in central air conditioners, mini splits, and heat pumps. Specifically, the commonly used R-410A refrigerant is being phased out due to new regulations, a change expected to increase costs across the industry for refrigerant-based systems.
Homeowners who have an AC system that will need to be replaced in the next year or two have an important decision to make: to upgrade now before the new regulations take effect or wait. Let’s go over the details of the new changes and the pros and cons of upgrading your system now or waiting on HVAC installation in Jacksonville.
R-410A Phase-Out
R-410A, a refrigerant in use since the 1990s, became the industry standard in 2013. If your AC was installed in the last 10-15 years, it likely uses R-410A, also known by trade names like Puron, AZ-20, EcoFluor R410, Forane 410A, Genetron R410A, and Suva 410A. Despite its widespread use, R-410A is prone to refrigerant leaks because of the high pressure needed for operation. That combined with its negative environmental effects is driving its phase-out.
The EPA has set a timeline for eliminating R-410A, meaning manufacturers will soon stop producing systems that use it, and the refrigerant itself will become more scarce and thus more costly. This will lead to higher prices for repairs and new installations for central air conditioners, heat pumps, and mini splits.
Impact on Homeowners
If your current AC system uses R-410A and is fairly new, you don’t need to worry. The new regulations don’t require you to replace it immediately. However, it’s crucial to understand how the phase-out will impact you over time, particularly in two areas: repairs for your current system and the purchase of a new one after 2025.
As R-410A becomes harder to find, the cost of recharging systems that use it will rise. If your system develops a refrigerant leak, you may pay more for repairs than you would today. New systems using R-454B (Opteon XL41), the replacement refrigerant, will be more expensive. The development and production of these new systems require updated technology, raising costs for homeowners and commercial properties alike.
If your AC is within the 8-10 year range or is older, consider upgrading soon. Doing so before the price increases driven by the phase-out will save you money. Not only that but new systems are more energy-efficient, lowering your utility bills.
Keep Your Current System Running Well With Maintenance
If your current system uses R-410A, the best thing you can do is to schedule regular AC maintenance for it. No matter what type of system you have, whether it’s a heat pump, ductless mini split, or central air conditioner, maintenance is key to avoiding an unexpected repair or an early system replacement. Our maintenance club, the MVP Plan, is the best way to keep your equipment running at peak efficiency.
It’s No Sweat: Call Bayonet! Contact Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule HVAC installation in Jacksonville, FL today!