The HVAC industry is transitioning to new refrigerants as required by the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020, which phases out existing refrigerant classes in favor of lower global-warming-potential alternatives.
As part of this transition, the EPA has set specific dates for new equipment to use the new refrigerants, commonly referred to as A2Ls. Residential and light commercial air conditioners and heat pumps manufactured after January 1, 2025 must use these new refrigerants. Equipment produced before that date has a one-year grace period to be installed, with a final installation deadline of January 1, 2026.
Existing air conditioning and heat pump equipment is not subject to the new regulations and can be used until the end of its lifecycle. Components used for servicing and repair are also exempt. The supply of refrigerants like R-410A for servicing will remain available even as production and imports decline over the next decade.
All refrigerants are classified by toxicity and flammability. A2L refrigerants keep the non-toxic classification of their predecessor (R-410A) but are reclassified to Class 2L for lower flammability. To address this, manufacturers are adding safety features, revising handling procedures, and updating installation instructions. Key measures include enhanced refrigerant-line testing and controlling refrigerant concentration in buildings to stay below flammability limits.
Manufacturers may install leak-detection sensors in air handlers, activate fans to reduce refrigerant concentration, and use shut-off valves to limit leaks. The primary A2L refrigerants expected in the market are R-32 and R-454B.
If you are building or planning a new system, coordinate timelines with your contractor and make sure your installer is knowledgeable about the new requirements. If your current system is running well, there is no need to rush — your equipment can serve out its full life, and service refrigerant will remain available.
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