R-454B Refrigerant Q & A
What You Need to Know About the Transition
The transition to refrigerant R-454B is a significant step toward more sustainable HVAC practices—but with change often comes confusion. If you're unsure what this means for your home or business, you're not alone. As of January 1, 2025, all newly manufactured HVAC systems in the U.S. must use R-454B instead of R-410A. This move is designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve system efficiency.
To help you navigate this shift, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions from homeowners and business owners alike.
Q: Can I upgrade my current R-410A system to use R-454B?
A: No, retrofitting an R-410A system to use R-454B isn’t possible. The two refrigerants differ significantly in chemical composition and required operating pressures. Attempting to use R-454B in a system designed for R-410A would be unsafe and ineffective. To use R-454B, you’ll need to install new, compatible equipment.
Q: How is R-454B more energy-efficient?
A: The job of a refrigerant is to transfer heat. When used for heating a building, the refrigerant absorbs heat from a source, such as outdoor air, even when it's freezing outside. This heat is then pressurized and manipulated to create warm air inside. In cooling mode, the refrigerant pulls the heat out of the indoor air, and the rest of the system circulates cool air. The better a refrigerant is at trapping heat, the more efficiently the HVAC system can operate. Therefore, this new refrigerant is more efficient because it absorbs heat better, which is not only great for the environment but also reduces energy bills and extends the predicted lifespan of the system.
Q: Is R-454B refrigerant safe?
A: Yes, R-454B is safe when installed and handled properly by a certified HVAC technician. You may notice flammability warnings on the packaging, which are required due to its mildly flammable classification. However, modern HVAC systems are designed with built-in safety measures, and professionals are trained to manage these materials safely. There's no greater risk to homeowners than with previous refrigerants.
Q: Can my existing R-410A system still be serviced?
A: Absolutely. While new R-410A systems are no longer being manufactured, the refrigerant itself will still be available for servicing existing systems. You won’t be forced to replace your system if it’s in good condition. Over time, as demand decreases, R-410A may become more expensive or harder to find—but that won’t happen overnight.
Q: Will upgrading to an R-454B system cost more?
A: In the short term, new systems using R-454B may come at a slightly higher cost due to manufacturer updates, technician training, and equipment redesigns. However, these costs are expected to level out as the industry fully adopts the new standard. Long-term, the increased efficiency of R-454B systems may help offset any initial investment through energy savings.
Still have questions?
If you plan to install a new HVAC system and want to learn more about the transition to R-454B, please don't hesitate to speak with a certified HVAC technician. A good company will ensure you're fully informed and can make a decision you feel confident in. If you're in the Wakefield, MA, area, feel free to contact us. Our team is always happy to answer our customers' questions, big and small!
Whether you need 24-7 emergency service or a solution to improve your indoor comfort—at home and work—call us at 781-224-2400 or submit a convenient contact form.