2025 Refrigerant Changes

The Long-Term Transition:

Moving toward Zero GWP

The EPA set into motion a schedule designed to move the HVAC industry toward reduced GWP refrigerants between 2022 and 2036.

 

This transition will happen in two ways; a scheduled phasedown of high GWP R-410a refrigerant combined with the implementation of new low-GWP refrigerants – eventually progressing into the use of natural refrigerants such as propane that pose little to no risk to the environment.

 

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The R-410a phasedown process began in 2022. It started gradually but in 2025 ramps up with a 40% reduction in the amount of R-410a refrigerant produced or imported into the U.S. In addition, in 2025 the EPA will prohibit the production of new equipment that uses R-410a, requiring all new equipment to use new low-GWP refrigerants with a GWP score of 700 or less. The two primary low-GWP refrigerants that meet those requirements are R-32 and R-454B. Lennox has chosen R-454B as our 2025 Compliant Refrigerant.  

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And the 2025 shift is not the last major transition the industry experiences. Beyond 2025, we will see continued phase down of R-410a with a 70% reduction in 2029. We can also expect another reduction in the GWP requirements of residential and commercial refrigerants in 2034 that will likely require a move to natural refrigerants like propane.

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Today’s Transition: Moving to Low-GWP Refrigerants

As a part of our pledge to make decisions that are good for homeowners, good for dealers, and good for the environment, we’ve updated our entire product lineup to use our 2025 Compliant Refrigerant – R-454B.

With a 78% lower GWP than previous refrigerants, it complies with updated EPA regulations and is formulated to provide excellent, reliable performance for years to come.

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Benefits of 2025 Compliant Refrigerant 

• Zero Effect on the Ozone:

       Compared to refrigerants with high levels of HFCs, low-GWP refrigerants are non-ozone depleting and have lower global warming potential.

• Chemical Composition:

        Low-GWP refrigerants are composed of elements and compounds that produce minimal greenhouse gas effects, such as hydrogen, carbon, and                 fluorine. Refrigerants with high GWP often contain chlorine.

• Short Atmospheric Lifetime:

        Refrigerants with shorter atmospheric lifetimes tend to have a lower GWP level as they don’t stay in the atmosphere for extended periods, reducing         the overall impact on global warming.

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Visit the EPAs website to learn more about the transition to low-GWP alternatives.

 

What does the R-454B transition mean to you?

If your current system uses R-410A or R-22 refrigerant, no immediate action is required. The phasedown schedule stretches out to 2036, a timeline that allows homeowners to upgrade or replace their systems with R-454B equipment units at a time that’s convenient to them and based on the life of their system. As most systems have a lifespan of 10-15 years, the majority of homeowners should make the transition naturally within the phasedown timeline.

When the time comes, whether it’s an emergency replacement or a planned upgrade, every homeowner’s situation will look different. Homeowners should discuss their system replacement options with a local dealer or technician to understand which system will best suit their needs.

As the phasedown schedule progresses, our dealers and technicians continue to receive extensive ongoing training and new product education to ensure they can answer your questions and provide the best experience possible.  We will be well equipped to help service and advise you as the transition calendar moves forward.

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