Refrigerant Update: 2024 HVAC Low GWP Transition

As technology advances, so do the regulations that come with it. And your heating, cooling, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is no exception. Currently, there are regulations in place to update the type of refrigerant used in residential and commercial HVAC systems, chillers, and related equipment that use refrigerant. Here at Kennon Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re here to help you understand why these changes are being made and how this impacts you and your home.

What Change Is Being Made to Refrigerant Requirements?

Refrigerant is a type of chemical used to create the cooling effect in HVAC systems and other cooling appliances. These chemicals are not the most environmentally friendly materials, however, which is why the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has now mandated a change to use low-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants. High-GWP refrigerants, such as the commonly used R-410A, are a big source of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), a type of greenhouse gas that’s harmful to the environment. Today, a number of low-GWP refrigerants are available, allowing for better options for your HVAC system.

Based on the EPA mandate, manufacturers of HVAC systems must switch to a refrigerant with a GWP of 700 or less by January 1, 2025. In fact, HVAC manufacturers have already begun to make these changes, using options like R-4545B or R-32. What this means for you is that if you decide to replace your HVAC system, your new system will likely have a low-GWP refrigerant. These low-GWP refrigerants are very similar to the older R-410A refrigerant, so the installation and effectiveness of these units will be very similar to what you’re already used to.

Learn More About Our HVAC Services

At Kennon Heating & Air Conditioning, we proudly partner with industry leaders to offer top-of-the-line HVAC systems for homeowners from North Metro Atlanta to North Georgia, including Cumming, Alpharetta, Atlanta, Braselton, Buford, Cobb County, Dacula, Dawsonville, Dultuh, Flowery Branch, Gainesville, Hoschton, Jefferson, Johns Creek, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Norcross, Oakwood, Sugar Hill, Suwanee and more. To learn more about the refrigerant updates and what this means for you, contact Kennon Heating & Air Conditioning today.