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At Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we believe in informing our customers about upcoming HVAC industry changes that will directly impact the cost of cooling equipment. A major change on the horizon involves refrigerants which central air conditioners, mini splits, and heat pumps all depend on for cooling air.
Specifically, the widely used R-410A refrigerant is being phased out due to new regulations. This phase-out is anticipated to raise costs for HVAC systems that rely on refrigerants industry-wide. Here’s what you should know if you are due for an HVAC installation in Tampa.
R-410A Phase-Out
R-410A is a refrigerant that has been used in air conditioning systems since the 1990s and became the industry standard in 2013. If your AC system was installed within the last 10-15 years, it most likely uses this type of refrigerant. Although it is most commonly known by the name Puron, it is also sold under trademarked names such as AZ-20, EcoFluor R410, Forane 410A, Genetron R410A, and Suva 410A.
Although it has been the standard for over a decade, R-410A is problematic for many reasons. A major issue is the fact that because R-410A requires such high pressure for operation, it is prone to leaks. Not only do leaks require a repair need from our team to pinpoint the source, fix the leak, and then top off the refrigerant, but leaks are also unhealthy for homeowners and the environment. R-410A’s negative environmental effects are also contributing to its elimination.
The EPA has set a timeline for eliminating R-410A refrigerant. This means HVAC equipment manufacturers must cease producing systems using R-410A by a certain date. The refrigerant itself will also eventually become scarce and expensive. Homeowners will face higher costs for AC repairs and the installation of a new AC, heat pump, or mini split system.
How This Will Affect Homeowners
If your air conditioner uses R-410A, you don’t need to worry that the new regulations mean that you have to purchase a new AC system. However, it’s important to understand how the phase-out will affect you over time in two key areas: how it will affect repairs needed for your current system and purchasing a new system in 2025 and beyond.
As R-410A becomes less accessible, recharging systems that use this refrigerant will become more costly. If your AC system develops a refrigerant leak and requires a top-off, you may pay more than you would today for that air conditioning repair.
Also, new central air conditioners, heat pumps, and mini split that will use the new refrigerant (R-454B, also known as Opteon XL41) will be more expensive to purchase. Developing and manufacturing new AC systems that use R-454B requires updated technology and manufacturing processes. Combined with the increased cost of the refrigerants themselves, this inevitably results in increased costs not just for homeowners, but for commercial properties as well.
Consider an AC Upgrade in 2025
If your AC system is in the 8-10 year age range–or is even older–consider upgrading your equipment soon. By upgrading now, you can avoid the price increases that will inevitably occur as the industry adjusts to the new regulations. You will also have a system that is more energy-efficient than your current one, resulting in lower utility costs.
It’s No Sweat: Call Bayonet! Contact Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule HVAC installation in Tampa, FL today!