What Homeowners Need To Know About The New Refrigerant In HVAC Systems
May 19, 2025
As of 2025, all newly manufactured HVAC systems must be designed to operate with an environmentally-friendly A2L refrigerant. If you’re a homeowner, this likely doesn’t mean much to you yet. But learning how this new refrigerant will impact your home’s HVAC system will help prepare you for future repairs or replacement.
So what does a refrigerant do? Its primary purpose is to absorb and release heat during the heating and cooling processes, removing heat from your home and replacing it with cool air. In frosty Iowa winters, refrigerants work in reverse, enabling your heating system to absorb heat into your home. The HVAC industry is shifting to new A2L refrigerants to remain compliant with national and international efforts to reduce global warming potential (GWP). In your home, these energy-efficient refrigerants have the potential to reduce energy costs and may make you eligible for a tax credit. Still, the unknown can be scary, so we’re here to break down how this new industry standard impacts HVAC for Des Moines homeowners, including what you can expect for HVAC repairs, new installations and ongoing system maintenance. Hint: it’s nothing to worry about, and not as new as you think!
What Is An A2L Refrigerant?
A2L refrigerants represent an industry-wide classification, where “A” indicates low toxicity and “2L” mild flammability. The new standard for home HVAC systems, A2Ls are safer, more efficient and better for the environment than traditional refrigerants.
While A2L refrigerants are relatively new to home heating and cooling, rest assured it’s likely not your first rodeo with the product. Many car models stemming all the way back to 2013 use A2Ls, as do modern refrigerators, vending machines, grocery store freezer aisles and more. The most common types for home HVAC systems are R-454B, used in whole-home systems, and R-32 for ductless units like mini-splits. Manufacturers like Lennox ensure the latest heating and cooling systems are equipped with advanced components compatible with A2L refrigerants so homeowners notice no difference in operation when a new unit is installed. Compared to the current R-410A refrigerant used in most home HVAC systems, these new refrigerants redefine the environmental footprint worldwide.
Why Are Refrigerants Changing In HVAC Systems?
Traditional refrigerants like R-410A are being phased out of HVAC systems to comply with the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act of 2020. This Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulation mandated manufacturers only design products for refrigerants with global warming potential (GWP) below 700 starting in 2025. This initial push for low-GWP refrigerants like A2Ls is part of a long-term goal to replace high-GWP refrigerants like R-410A and other hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) by 2036.
HFCs create hazardous greenhouse gases that harm the environment and contribute to global warming, with a GWP over 2,000. In comparison, new A2L refrigerants like R-454B have less than one-fourth of the hazardous potential at just 466. It’s good to know the background behind this change so you’re prepared the next time you need a new HVAC system installed, but the most important takeaway today is how this global shift will impact HVAC for the Des Moines homeowners we serve right here in our community.
How New A2L Refrigerants Affect Des Moines HVAC Installations & Repair Costs
Good news: you don’t have to replace your HVAC system if it’s still providing well for your home. However, as the R-410A refrigerant is phased out of new units, costs for a new part or service request may rise if availability becomes limited. Our Des Moines HVAC repair experts are still trained and equipped to service older units with the appropriate parts and designated refrigerant. You can count on us to keep your system running throughout the span of its life.
If you need a new HVAC system now, you’ll be upgraded to a system with A2L refrigerant compatibility. In addition to being better for the environment, A2Ls are highly energy efficient and save homeowners energy costs. So while the upfront costs to replace your HVAC system with a modern A2L-ready system may be higher than an earlier-manufactured system, the longevity and cost-savings A2L units allow will ultimately save you money long-term. Systems equipped with these new refrigerants have the most advanced parts and technology, meaning they will remain efficient and adaptable to provide for your home many years into the future.
Can An A2L Refrigerant Be Installed In Older HVAC Units?
A2L refrigerants are only compatible with HVAC systems manufactured in 2025 or beyond. If you want to upgrade to this new refrigerant to save on energy bills or reduce your environmental footprint, you’ll need a new system installed that’s designed for A2L use. Otherwise, if your current system still operates well, you can continue to have it serviced and repaired like usual to run with the R-410A refrigerant and parts.
Another benefit of upgrading to a new HVAC system is the variety of incentives available for energy-efficient units, including rebates, tax credits and Lozier’s Loyalty Rewards Program.
Save On New HVAC Systems In Des Moines With Lozier’s Rebates & Rewards
Lozier partners with Lennox, our preferred provider, to offer rebates for new air conditioner, furnace or whole-home heating and cooling products. To get money back and save on your purchase, contact us for our rebate options. If you upgrade to a certified energy-efficient unit, you may also be eligible for a tax credit to earn money back.
To save on repairs and seasonal tune-ups and receive up to $1,000 applied to a new HVAC purchase, join our Lozier Loyalty Rewards Program. Rewards members receive seasonal tune-ups and guaranteed service with diagnostic fees waived and repair parts discounted 15%. And when you upgrade to a new air conditioner or furnace, we’ll give you up to $1,000 toward the purchase.
Call Lozier Heating & Cooling For HVAC Install, Repair & Replacement Solutions
Despite manufacturing changes and new regulations facing the HVAC industry, Lozier remains a steady partner for Des Moines HVAC repairs and installations to ensure homeowners receive constant support and comfort. To learn more about the latest energy-efficient HVAC systems or request service for your home, text us at (515) 393-4262 or call (515) 267-1000 to get in touch.