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At Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we stay abreast of changes in the HVAC industry and pass down the most important changes to our customers. A major, upcoming change concerning the phase-out of the refrigerant R-410A will directly affect the cost of cooling equipment for homeowners. The cost of central air conditioners, mini splits, and heat pumps is anticipated to rise significantly in price. If you own an outdated HVAC system, you may want to consider if you should schedule HVAC installation in Winter Garden before these changes take effect to save a significant amount on a new system. Here’s what you should know.
What Is the 2025 Refrigerant Change?
The American Innovation and Manufacturing Act (AIM Act) was created to reduce the production and usage of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). The refrigerant R-410A contains HFCs and has been the most commonly used refrigerant in cooling systems since around 2010. However, HVAC manufacturers will no longer be able to make HVAC systems that use R-410A.
This transition will directly impact both the cost and availability of HVAC systems in 2025 with prices expected to steadily increase. If you are a homeowner who will need a new cooling system in the near future, you will need to decide whether to buy a new HVAC system now. The advantage of buying a system now is that the cost will be significantly lower than in 2025 and later.
The Benefits of Waiting
There are some advantages to waiting for AC replacement until after the 2025 refrigerant changes. Homeowners who want to make an eco-friendly option should know that new central air conditioners, heat pumps, and mini split will use the new refrigerant (R-454B, also known as Opteon XL41). These new refrigerants are designed to be more efficient and environmentally friendly.
Cooling systems that use the new refrigerants are also likely to be more energy efficient, potentially reducing utility costs. By waiting, you’re investing in the latest technology that’s compliant with future regulations. You’ll also avoid the potential complications of using a system with outdated refrigerants that may become harder to service or repair.
How Much More Expensive Will New AC Systems Be?
One of the biggest questions that Florida homeowners have is, “How much more expensive new cooling systems will be?” While it’s difficult to predict exact costs, experts anticipate that systems using R-454B will be more expensive than current systems that use R-410A.
That’s because the development of new systems that will work with refrigerants like R-454B requires the development of new manufacturing processes. Combined with the increased cost of the refrigerants themselves, will likely lead to higher prices for consumers.
If You Decide to Wait
If you decide to wait to purchase a new system, the best thing you can do is ensure that your existing system is well taken care of. We highly recommend that homeowners schedule maintenance once a year for central air conditioners and twice a year for heat pumps and mini splits.
As R-410A becomes less available and as demand increases, 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.
Depend on Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning to stay abreast of changes in the HVAC industry and keep you, our valued customers, informed.
It’s No Sweat: Call Bayonet! Contact Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule HVAC installation in Winter Garden, FL today!