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2025 Refrigerant Changes: What NH & Southern Maine Homeowners Need to Know about R-410A, R-454B, and R-32

  • jeffkmgmechanical
  • Aug 31
  • 2 min read

2025 HVAC Refrigerant Changes
2025 HVAC Refrigerant Changes

The HVAC industry is in the middle of a major refrigerant transition. The long standard

R-410A is being phased down, and new equipment is moving to lower GWP (global warming potential) refrigerants primarily R-454B and R-32 to reduce climate impact. For homeowners, this affects new system choices, repair economics, safety codes, and availability/pricing.

The Big Picture: Timelines and Rules

  • Nationwide phasedown of HFCs: The EPA must reduce hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) production 85% by 2036, with step downs already in place (including a 40% reduction that began in 2024).

  • New residential & light commercial AC/heat pump systems: Starting January 1, 2025, new systems can only use refrigerants with a GWP below 700. This eliminates R-410A for new equipment. Contractors may still install pre 2025 R-410A systems through January 1, 2026.

  • Servicing existing R-410A systems: Parts and refrigerant for repairs will remain available, but supply and pricing will be under pressure as the phasedown continues.

Meet the New Refrigerants

Refrigerant

Safety Class

100-yr GWP

Role in New Systems

R-410A

A1 (non-flammable)

~2,088

Phasing out of new equipment after 2025

R-32

A2L (mildly flammable)

~675

Adopted by many OEMs

R-454B

A2L (mildly flammable)

~466

Adopted by other OEMs

Why this matters: Both R-32 and R-454B meet the new EPA limit, while R-410A does not.

Why Repairs May Turn Into Replacements

  • Not compatible: R-454B and R-32 cannot be used in R-410A systems. Pressures, components, and safety standards differ.

  • No retrofitting: Systems designed for A1 refrigerants (R-410A) can’t legally or safely be recharged with A2L refrigerants (R-32, R-454B).

  • Economics: As R-410A becomes more expensive, a major repair like a coil or compressor may cost so much that a full system replacement is the smarter move.

Safety and Code Updates

  • R-32 and R-454B are both A2L (mildly flammable) refrigerants.

  • New safety standards (UL 60335-2-40, ASHRAE 15/15.2, 2024 IMC/IFC/IRC) cover charge limits, installation rules, and labeling.

  • Local permitting is still catching up. KMG Mechanical handles compliance and permitting for every install.

What This Means for Homeowners

If you own an R-410A system:

  • It’s not “illegal.” You can continue using and servicing it.

  • Repairs are still possible, but R-410A refrigerant will get more expensive.

  • For major repairs on older equipment, a replacement may be the better investment.

If you’re buying new equipment:

  • Expect it to use R-32 or R-454B.

  • Both perform well, but they are not interchangeable.

  • Be sure your contractor is trained and equipped for A2L refrigerants.

Quick Homeowner Checklist

  • If your R-410A system is 8 - 12+ years old and needs a big repair, compare the cost of repair vs. replacement.

  • For newer systems with small issues, repairing with R-410A is still sensible.

  • For new installs, ask about refrigerant type (R-454B or R-32) and confirm the installer follows A2L codes and standards.

KMG Mechanical: Here to Help

We stay on top of refrigerant changes and code updates, so you don’t have to.

  • Evaluate: Honest assessment of repair vs. replacement.

  • Comply: Handle permits and safety standards for A2L refrigerants.

  • Install: Use proper A2L rated tools and practices.

  • Support: Guide you through rebate and tax credit opportunities for new systems.

Call us today at (603) 919-7929 or visit www.kmgmechanical.org to schedule your service or consultation.


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