What to Know About the HVAC Refrigerants Phase-Out
We all love the being able to control the temperature of our homes. It’s something that’s easy to take for granted. Few people put much thought into the impact of air conditioning on the environment. Regulators and manufacturers are working hard to make the HVAC industry more energy efficient and less wasteful. The goal is protecting our planet for future generations. As part of this, major changes to the use of HVAC refrigerants will be taking place across North America through 2025.
What Does Refrigerant Do?
There are many different kinds of refrigerant, but they all do the same thing. As a part of your air conditioner or heat pump system, refrigerant helps transfer heat and humidity out of your home for cooling. It also draws heat from outdoor air and brings it inside for heating. Your system uses the refrigerant over and over again, as it cycles through. It is not like gasoline or propane fuel which always get used up to provide energy or heat. However, you can lose refrigerant over time through leaks in your system.
More About the Phase Out
R410 (Puron) refrigerant has been the standard for many years to help cool homes and buildings. Unfortunately, this refrigerant has been shown to have a negative impact on the environment. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recently passed a detailed plan to phase out R410. It will no longer be allowed in new systems beginning in 2025. In addition, increases in SEER efficiency requirements are rolling out at the same time.
What Will Replace the Old HVAC Refrigerants?
The EPA recommends several refrigerants. These new refrigerants have the same cooling abilities without the high greenhouse gas and HFC emissions. Carolina Air is on top the these changes. We are training our technicians to be fully proficient with the new refrigerants.
What If I Have a System Using the Old Refrigerant?
The new refrigerants will not work on a system designed to run R410 refrigerant. Carolina Air will continue to service and maintain your system with whichever coolant it is using, for as long as possible. The older refrigerant will be available for repairs and maintenance for many years. You do not need to worry about trying to remember which type of system you have – we’ll take care of that for you!
If you are ready for a new system for your home or business call Carolina Air (843) 524-2581
