You are viewing the Helena, MT location.
The year 2025 marks a significant shift in the HVAC industry with the introduction of new refrigerant regulations. These changes aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and eliminate refrigerants that are prone to causing leaks. That means phasing out certain high-GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerants in favor of more eco-friendly alternatives. At Ambient Air Solutions, we understand that many homeowners and businesses are asking, “How will these changes impact me?” In this blog post, we’ll break down the 2025 HVAC refrigerant change, who it affects, and why now is a great time to consider upgrading an outdated cooling system.
What Are the 2025 Refrigerant Changes?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is enforcing a phasedown of refrigerants with high GWP. These include R-410A, a commonly used refrigerant in many residential and commercial HVAC systems. Starting in 2025, the production and importation of these refrigerants will be significantly reduced.
Additionally, R-410A is prone to causing leaks in central AC systems and heat pumps. That’s because R-410A operates at higher pressures, putting more stress on system components like valves, joints, and seals. Over time, this increased pressure can lead to wear and tear, resulting in small cracks or gaps. Improper installation, repairs, or maintenance can exacerbate these issues.
Who Will Be Affected by These Changes?
The 2025 refrigerant changes will impact a variety of groups:
- Homeowners with older systems: If your air conditioner or heat pump uses R-410A or even older refrigerants like R-22, you’ll likely face rising costs for maintenance and repairs as these refrigerants become less available.
- Business owners: Commercial properties with large HVAC systems may see increased operating costs and could need to plan for system upgrades to maintain efficiency and compliance.
- Manufacturers: Equipment suppliers will need to transition to stocking and selling systems compatible with low-GWP refrigerants, which may temporarily impact availability and pricing.
Why Now Is a Good Time for Heat Pump or AC Installation
If you’ve been considering replacing your outdated and inefficient air conditioning system or heat pump, now is the ideal time for HVAC installation. With the transition toward systems that use refrigerants, the demand for systems that use R-410A is gradually declining. This makes it a great time to invest in a reliable, high-quality system.
Also, R-410A systems remain available at Ambient Air Solutions, but this won’t last indefinitely. As production shifts to systems using alternative refrigerants, R410A models will gradually be phased out. Purchasing now ensures you can access these systems at competitive prices without worrying about future stock shortages or price hikes.
While R-410A systems are currently a cost-effective option, it’s important to think about your long-term needs and potential refrigerant regulations. As the phaseout continues, R-410A availability will decline, potentially increasing service costs for repairs for refrigerant leaks. If your current system is nearing 10-15 years old, now is an excellent time to upgrade.
If you are still uncertain about whether you should buy a new system soon or wait, don’t hesitate to contact us!
Contact Ambient Air Solutions today for professional HVAC installation in Helena, MT. Simplifying Heating & Cooling!