R-410A Being Phased Out: What Homeowners Need to Know

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As your trusted, local HVAC company, we want to keep homeowners informed about changes in the HVAC industry that will affect the cost of conditioning systems and air conditioning service in Fresno. One major change coming down the pipeline involves refrigerants—the substances that your central air conditioners, mini splits, and heat pumps depend on to cool your home’s air. Specifically, the refrigerant known as R-410A is being phased out due to environmental concerns. This change is expected to cause a rise in the cost of air conditioning systems for homeowners. Here’s why.

Why the EPA Is Phasing Out R-410A

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been working to reduce the use of refrigerants that contribute to global warming and ozone depletion. R-410A, a commonly used refrigerant in residential air conditioning systems, is being phased out. While it’s been an industry standard for years, R-410A is bad for the environment.

The EPA has set a timeline to phase out refrigerants like R-410A. This means manufacturers must stop producing systems that use R-410A by a certain date, and eventually, R-410A itself will become harder and more expensive to get. For homeowners, this translates to higher costs for AC repairs and especially for new installations.

How This Will Affect Homeowners

If you currently own an air conditioner that uses R-410A, you’re not alone—most homeowners with AC systems purchased in the last decade or so have R-410A units. While you don’t need to replace your existing AC system, it’s important to understand how the phase-out will impact you over time.

• Higher Repair Costs: As R-410A becomes less available, the cost of recharging systems that use this refrigerant is expected to increase. If your AC system develops a refrigerant leak or needs a top-off, you could end up paying more than you would today.
• More Expensive Installations: Newer air conditioning systems that use environmentally friendly refrigerants will come at a higher cost. The combination of manufacturing changes and the use of newer refrigerants means that homeowners purchasing a new system will likely pay more upfront than they would for an R-410A system today.

How to Prepare for the Changes

So, what can you do as a homeowner to prepare for these refrigerant changes and the potential increase in AC costs?

1. Consider an Early Upgrade: If your AC system is over 10 years old or showing signs of trouble, it may be worth upgrading sooner rather than later. By upgrading now, you can avoid the potential price increases that are expected as the industry shifts to newer refrigerants. Plus, newer systems are more energy-efficient, which can save you money on your energy bills in the long run.
2. Keep Up with Maintenance: Regular AC maintenance can help extend the life of your system and prevent issues that require refrigerant recharges.

If you have questions about your current system or are considering an upgrade, don’t hesitate to reach out. We can help you explore your options and find the best solution for your home.

California Indoor Comfort: Where comfort and technology come together. Schedule an appointment today for air conditioning service in Fresno, CA.