In 2025, R-22 is out, and new-and-improved refrigerants are in. New HVAC refrigerant regulations in 2025 provide homeowners with opportunities to upgrade their AC systems and enjoy enhanced energy efficiency and cooling performance. Learn how regulations for new refrigerants in 2025 impact your HVAC system and how Fleetwell HVAC services can help.
What Is Changing with HVAC Refrigerants in 2025?
In 2025, the U.S. is increasing its measures to phase out certain refrigerants, including R-22 and R-410A, in new HVAC systems as part of a nationwide effort to reduce harmful hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) emissions under the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act. The AIM Act is likewise a part of a global initiative, the Montreal Protocol and the Kigali Amendment, to phase out HFC production and consumption in an effort to cut emissions, protect the ozone, and improve energy efficiency.
The AIM Act mandates the phasing out of HFCs by 85% from baseline levels by 2036. To accomplish this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is authorized to carry out three main initiatives:
- Phasing out HFC production and consumption.
- Facilitating sector-based transitions to next-generation technology.
- Issuing regulations to maximize HFC reclamation and minimize release of HFCs from HVAC equipment.
As early as January 1, 2025, manufacturers and importers are subject to refrigerant product restrictions and requirements for reporting and recordkeeping. The EPA requires all newly manufactured HVAC equipment to use refrigerants that comply with lower global warming potential (GWP) requirements of 700 or less. R-22 and R-410A don’t meet these standards at 1,080 and 2,090, respectively.
These rules don’t outright ban all equipment that uses HFCs — instead, they restrict the use of refrigerants and components for systems that use harmful products. With select exceptions, homeowners may not install new HVAC systems using HFC refrigerants after January 1, 2025, but they may continue to service their existing systems.
Why Is R-22 Being Phased Out?
By phasing out R-22 and adopting refrigerants with lower GWP, the HVAC industry contributes to long-term environmental health while improving the performance of modern air conditioning systems.
Ozone layer protection
R-22, also known as HCFC-22, contains compounds that directly damage the ozone layer. When released into the atmosphere, these chemicals rise into the stratosphere, break down ozone molecules, and reduce Earth’s protection against ultraviolet radiation.
Environmental impact
Older refrigerants have high global warming potential, which traps a significant amount of heat in the atmosphere and contributes to climate change. By switching to alternative products, the HVAC industry reduces its carbon footprint and aligns with global efforts to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Energy efficiency
New refrigerants provide more efficient heat transfer, which supports better system performance and lower energy consumption. HVAC systems that use new refrigerants instead of R-22 offer homeowners more consistent cooling and a lower utility bill.
What Are the New HVAC Refrigerants for 2025?
As it moves away from R-22 and R-410A, the HVAC industry is increasingly adopting eco-friendly options with two primary refrigerants:
- R-454B: The standard replacement for R-410A in most ducted central AC systems.
- R-32: Used in ductless mini-splits and window-mounted or portable units.
These refrigerants aren’t interchangeable with older products and require new systems designed to accommodate their specific properties.
Benefits of newer refrigerants
New refrigerants offer several important benefits, including:
- Lower GWP: R-454B has a GWP of 466, almost 80% less than R-410A. R-32 cuts GWP by about 68%.
- Energy efficiency: These refrigerants help systems run more efficiently, often reducing energy consumption and utility bills.
- Improved performance: New products offer faster cooling, better heat exchange, and stable operation under varying conditions.
- Cleaner manufacturing: New systems designed around low-GWP refrigerants also follow updated manufacturing practices that reduce emissions and waste.
How Will the 2025 Refrigerant Mandate Affect Homeowners?
The 2025 refrigerant mandates impact homeowners differently depending on the age and condition of their current HVAC system.
Existing HVAC systems
The 2025 refrigerant changes don’t require immediate action for homes with existing HVAC systems that use R-22 or R-410A. You may continue servicing your HVAC system with compatible refrigerants and components as long as it’s operational and safe, but you can’t retrofit it to use new refrigerants. Technicians who service your R-22 or R-410A system must be EPA-certified under Section 608.
New HVAC systems
If you install a new HVAC system in 2025 and beyond, you’ll most likely choose from systems that use R-454B or R-32. Keep in mind that manufacturers face higher costs to produce new systems and are likely to pass their costs onto consumers — as such, new systems may cost 15% to 30% more than older models.
Despite a higher upfront cost, these systems feature redesigned and advanced components that accommodate new refrigerants, meet updated safety codes, and enable better performance and efficiency. Homeowners may also qualify for rebates or incentives that further offset upfront costs.
What Should You Do If Your AC Uses R-22 or R-410A?
Your response to the mandate depends on your specific refrigerant type and your system’s condition.
No immediate action required
If your AC uses R-22 or R-410A, you don’t need to act as long as your system is working properly. The mandate doesn’t disallow you from keeping your system.
However, as the industry moves away from older refrigerants, maintaining your system may become more costly and less practical. Supplies should remain available for R-410A systems for now, but phased-down manufacturing and distribution will likely dwindle supplies and drive costs up in the long term.
Systems that use R-22 may face more challenges. Only recycled or stockpiled products remain since the EPA phased out R-22 in 2020 and banned production and imports. R-22 systems can still be serviced — just expect increasingly higher costs and limited availability.
Maintain your current system
Routine maintenance is generally advantageous for HVAC efficiency and longevity, but it’s especially important for systems that use R-22 and R-410A. Schedule regular maintenance with a licensed and EPA-certified technician. They can check refrigerant levels, inspect coils, and look for leaks to help you avoid costly refrigerant charges and delay the need for a replacement system.
Otherwise, follow these maintenance practices to optimize your HVAC system’s performance and prevent premature wear:
- Replace air filters every 1 to 3 months.
- Keep the outdoor unit clear of leaves, branches, and other debris.
- Check and clean the condensate drain line.
- Seal and repair ductwork.
- Use a programmable or smart thermostat.
Plan for the future
Many existing systems that use R-22 and R-410A are well into their operating lives. Air conditioners typically last between 10 and 15 years. As they age, they become more prone to refrigerant leaks and other breakdowns.
If your AC system is more than 10 years old, planning for an AC replacement in the near future can prevent costly repairs and sudden system failures. Ask your HVAC technician about upgrading to a new, energy-efficient model.
Schedule AC Replacement and Maintenance Services With Fleetwell
Fleetwell helps Ventura County homeowners find the best replacement systems for their homes, budgets, and efficiency goals. Our expert technicians are licensed and certified to install and service current and next-generation HVAC systems. Contact us today to schedule HVAC services and learn more about new refrigerant changes in 2025.
