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Hot News: Refrigerant Changes You Need to Know

 

Hey there, St. Louis friends! It's your HVAC experts at Rhymes Heating & Cooling back again, and today we're talking about something pretty cool (pun intended!) – the changing world of refrigerants. You might have heard whispers about R-410A going away and new refrigerants popping up. Well, consider this your friendly neighborhood guide to understanding what's happening and how it impacts you.

The Big Chill: Why the Change?

For over 25 years, R-410A has been the go-to refrigerant in most residential and commercial HVAC systems. It's been a reliable workhorse, keeping us comfortable through scorching summers and frigid winters. But, like all good things, its time is coming to an end. Why? Because R-410A, while effective, has a high Global Warming Potential (GWP). Simply put, if it leaks into the atmosphere, it contributes to climate change more significantly than some other substances. As we become more aware of our environmental impact, the industry is shifting towards refrigerants with lower GWPs.

Think of it like this: Imagine your old gas-guzzling car. It gets you where you need to go, but it's not the most eco-friendly option. Newer, more efficient cars are coming out that are better for the environment. That's essentially what's happening with refrigerants. We're moving towards a more sustainable future, one cooling system at a time.

Enter the New Players: R-32 and R-454B

So, what are these new refrigerants everyone's talking about? Two of the frontrunners are R-32 and R-454B. Both boast significantly lower GWPs than R-410A, making them much more environmentally friendly. R-32 is already widely used in other parts of the world and is known for its efficiency. R-454B is another strong contender, offering a good balance of performance and environmental benefits. Think of these as the electric or hybrid cars of the HVAC world – more efficient and better for the planet.

What This Means for You (and Your Wallet)

Now, here's the important part for you, the homeowner or business owner. The refrigerant that has been used for the last 25+ years is being replaced. Any equipment manufactured after January 1, 2025, will have a new refrigerant. This is a big change for the industry, and it has some implications for your HVAC system.

  • New Equipment, New Price Tag: These newer units are 15-20% more expensive. This is due to the research and development costs associated with the new refrigerants and the updated technology required to use them.

  • Last Chance for R-410A Units: The units that were manufactured last year, are available at the lower price until they are gone. The available inventory will start to dry up the closer we get to summer, so if you were pushing off the replacement of your old system or have been nursing along your older unit for a few years, you may want to consider proactively replacing your unit before the lower-priced units are gone. This is a great opportunity to save some money if you know your system is on its last leg.

  • Future-Proofing Your Comfort: While the initial cost of new equipment might be higher, remember that you're investing in a more efficient and environmentally friendly system. These newer units are often designed with advanced technology that can lead to lower energy bills over time. Plus, you'll have peace of mind knowing you're doing your part for the environment.

Here's a quick recap in bullet points:

  • R-410A is being phased out due to its high GWP.

  • R-32 and R-454B are the leading replacement refrigerants.

  • New HVAC equipment using these refrigerants will be required after January 1, 2025.

  • These new units are 15-20% more expensive.

  • R-410A units manufactured last year are available at lower prices, but inventory is limited and won't last.

Don't Get Left Out in the Cold (or Heat!)

We understand that navigating these changes can be a bit overwhelming. That's where Rhymes Heating & Cooling comes in! We're here to help you understand your options, choose the best system for your needs and budget, and ensure a smooth transition to the new era of refrigerants. 

Don't wait until your old system gives out on the hottest day of the year. For a limited time, while supplies last, we can save people up to 20% by using the remaining equipment that we have accessible. Reach out to Rhymes Heating & Cooling today to discuss your HVAC needs and get ahead of the game!