The 2025 Refrigerant Law: What Homeowners Should Know About AC Changes

A significant change is coming to the air conditioning industry in 2025, as new regulations will phase out high-global-warming-potential (GWP) refrigerants like R-410A, commonly used in older AC systems. This shift is part of global efforts to reduce the environmental impact of refrigerants that contribute to climate change.

Why the Change?

For decades, refrigerants have been essential in cooling homes, but they have also contributed to global warming when released into the atmosphere. To combat this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been gradually phasing out older, harmful refrigerants in favor of more environmentally friendly alternatives.

The 2025 regulations are part of the ongoing effort, following the Montreal Protocol agreement, which aims to reduce substances that deplete the ozone layer and contribute to global warming.

What Does This Mean for Your AC System?

If your AC system still relies on R-410A, servicing and repairs may become more expensive as this refrigerant becomes scarce.

Air conditioning systems using new, lower-GWP refrigerants like R-32 and R-454B started becoming available in the early 2010s, so if your system is older than that, you’re definitely using the old rerigerant.

Manufacturers began transitioning to these alternatives to comply with environmental regulations and improve energy efficiency. By 2023, many new models on the market were already designed to use these eco-friendly refrigerants in preparation for the 2025 regulations phasing out R-410A.

Starting in 2025, manufacturers will no longer produce systems using R-410A, and refrigerant supplies will decrease, driving up costs for homeowners needing repairs. In some cases, instead of just a repair, you may need to upgrade to a newer unit that uses low-GWP refrigerants like R-32 or R-454B, which are more efficient and environmentally friendly.

Do You Need a New AC System?

Not necessarily, but it’s worth considering if your current unit is aging or experiencing frequent repairs.

Replacing your system now can save you from future headaches, as newer AC units are not only compliant with the 2025 law but also more energy-efficient, helping lower your utility bills. Especially with our Texas summers, you don’t want to be stuck facing repairs or replacement right when everyone else is also needing AC work.

New refrigerants like R-32 have a lower global warming potential, meaning they’re better for the environment and can provide enhanced cooling performance.

Impact on Home Inspections

For homeowners, particularly those looking to sell or purchase a home, understanding how the new refrigerant law affects HVAC systems is crucial. During a home inspection – either before buying or as part of an annual maintenance inspection, our inspectors can assess the age of the AC unit and determine if it still uses R-410A.

If so, you may want to budget for a potential upgrade to ensure your system is compliant with future regulations and won’t be a costly burden down the road.

Semper Fi Home Inspections can help you stay informed and prepared as these changes roll out. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just maintaining your home, having an HVAC inspection will give you peace of mind that your system is ready for the future.