Get Ready for the Transition to A2L Refrigerants

Get ready…for what??

It’s a fair question and one we are happy to answer as the transition to A2L refrigerants has important implications for both Utah homeowners and businesses. As always, we are staying on the forefront of information to help take the guesswork and worry out of complex HVAC issues for you.

Background Information

Back in 2010, the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry began transitioning away from hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) refrigerants that were contributing to ozone depletion. The industry began using new hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants such as R-410A that have a much lower impact on the environment.

In December of 2020, the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act gave authorization for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to begin phasing down these HFCs and transition to a new generation of low global warming potential (or low-GWP) refrigerants. This change means that manufacturers of HVAC equipment will need to move to using these new refrigerants for any new residential and commercial HVAC systems beginning on Jan 1, 2025 (and installed as of Jan 1, 2026).

If you’re curious, you can read all about the AIM Act on the EPA website.

The New Refrigerants

A2L refrigerants (named for their ASHRAE safety classification), are those that have mild flammability, low toxicity, and low-GWP. They include hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs) and HFO blends. A2L refrigerants work similarly to older refrigerants, but are more safe than ammonia and hydrocarbon refrigerants, and they are more energy efficient than the previous standards.

A2Ls will play a key role in helping meet not just the AIM Act Regulations, but also other key global initiatives like the Montreal Protocol (and the Kigali Amendment), Canada’s ODSHAR, as well as the EU Green Deal.

Because this is such an important transition, not just for the industry but for homeowners and businesses as well, we’ve compiled a detailed page of information and would encourage you to check it out to learn more about A2L refrigerants, their benefits, and what they mean for you.

READ: A2L Refrigerant Transition

Taking Care of All Your HVAC Needs

And, as always, if you have any other HVAC questions, need routine maintenance, or in need of a repair, you can trust CTR Heating & Air Conditioning to take care of you. Give us a call or schedule an appointment online. We look forward to serving you.