The 2025 Refrigerant Change (R-410A to R-454B)
New systems ship with R-454B refrigerant. Here's what the change means if you're repairing or replacing equipment.
Reviewed by Joe Martel · 4 min read · Updated June 2026 As of 2025, new air conditioners and heat pumps use R-454B, a refrigerant with a much lower global-warming potential than the R-410A it replaces. This is a federally driven environmental transition, and it changes a few practical things for homeowners.
What it means for you
- New equipment is designed for R-454B — you don't choose the refrigerant, the system does.
- Existing R-410A systems keep running and can still be serviced; R-410A remains available for repairs for years.
- As R-410A is phased down, its price can rise — one more factor when deciding whether to repair or replace an aging system.
Should you act now?
There's no need to rush a working system into the trash. But if your AC is 12+ years old and facing a major repair, the refrigerant transition is a reason to factor a new R-454B system into the math. We service both refrigerants and can tell you honestly where your system stands. See also when to replace your AC.
Questions about your current system? We’ll give you a straight answer.
Key terms in this article
Sources & further reading
Have a question about your system?
Real humans on the phone, 24/7. Same-day service across Cedar Park and greater Austin — flat-rate pricing, NATE-certified techs.