New central ACs and heat pumps now use lower-impact refrigerants such as R-454B because of EPA rules under the AIM Act. If you have an R-410A system, you can keep using it and have it repaired for its whole life. If you have an older R-22 system, it can still be serviced, but R-22 supply is limited, so replacement is often the smarter choice when a major repair comes up.
What changed and why
The AIM Act directs the EPA to cut U.S. production and use of HFC refrigerants by 85 percent by 2036. R-410A, the refrigerant in most home ACs installed from about 2010 to 2024, is an HFC with a high global warming potential (GWP).
Under EPA's Technology Transitions rules, new home and light commercial AC and heat pump systems must use a refrigerant with a GWP below 700. For systems like central split ACs and mini-splits, that limit applied to installations starting January 1, 2025. Manufacturers moved to R-454B and, for some brands, R-32.
The 2026 update on leftover R-410A equipment
EPA first allowed R-410A equipment built before 2025 to be installed only until January 1, 2026. In May 2026, EPA finalized a rule (published May 26, 2026, effective July 27, 2026) that removes that installation deadline. Now there is no installation cutoff for a home AC or heat pump system as long as all of its specified parts were made in or imported into the U.S. before January 1, 2025.
In plain terms: some contractors may still offer new R-410A equipment from older stock. That is legal, but ask how long parts and refrigerant will be easy to get before you choose it.
If you have an R-410A system
- You do not have to replace it. EPA says the rules do not restrict the continued use of existing systems, and a system may be serviced and repaired throughout its useful life.
- R-410A is still available for repairs, but the supply of new HFCs keeps shrinking under the phasedown. The Air Conditioning Contractors of America has warned that refrigerant prices could rise.
- R-454B cannot go into an R-410A system. They run at different pressures and R-454B systems need extra safety features. When only one half of a split system fails, ask your technician to explain your options in writing.
If you have an R-22 system
U.S. production and import of R-22 ended on January 1, 2020. EPA says you can keep using an R-22 system as long as you need to, and it can be serviced with recovered, reclaimed, or older stock of R-22. Because that supply only goes down, a leak or compressor failure on an R-22 system is usually the time to replace it. Do not let anyone add a product called R-22a. EPA warns it is a flammable hydrocarbon falsely sold as an R-22 substitute.
What is different about R-454B?
R-454B has a GWP of 466, compared with 2,088 for R-410A. It is classed as A2L, which means low toxicity and mildly flammable. In practice, R-454B equipment comes with built-in leak sensors and safety controls, and installers follow updated safety steps. For homeowners, a properly installed R-454B system works and feels just like any other central AC or heat pump.
A few practical points when you shop for a new system: the indoor coil and outdoor unit must both be built for R-454B, so a full matched system is normally installed together. Line sets can sometimes be reused if they are the right size and in good shape, which your installer should check. Keep the paperwork, since the refrigerant type and model numbers matter for future repairs and warranty claims.
When to call a pro
The bottom line: the refrigerant change mostly affects what you buy next, not the system you have today. Keep up with maintenance, fix small leaks early on newer systems, and plan ahead if your AC is older so you are not forced into a rushed decision during a July heat wave.
If your AC is low on refrigerant, ask which refrigerant it uses (it is on the outdoor unit's label) and whether a leak repair makes sense for its age. Yogi Heating & Cooling's technicians hold EPA Section 608 Universal certification and R-410A safety certification. Call (814) 431-1709 or book a visit for an honest repair-or-replace opinion. See also how to decide whether to repair or replace.
More questions
Is R-410A being banned?
Not for existing systems. You can keep using and repairing an R-410A system. The rules limit new equipment, and the supply of new R-410A is being phased down over time.
Can I convert my R-410A system to R-454B?
No. R-454B systems are designed for different pressures and require safety features that R-410A equipment does not have.
Do I need to replace my AC because of the refrigerant change?
No. Replace it when it fails, becomes unreliable, or a major repair is not worth the money. The refrigerant is one factor in that decision, not a reason by itself.
Is R-454B safe in my home?
R-454B is mildly flammable, so new systems include leak detection and safety controls. When installed to the maker's instructions and safety standards, it is used in homes across the country.
Related
Sources
- EPA: Technology Transitions HFC Restrictions by Sector
- Federal Register: Phasedown of Hydrofluorocarbons; Reconsideration of Certain Regulatory Requirements (May 26, 2026)
- EPA: Regulatory Actions for Technology Transitions
- EPA: Technology Transitions Final Rule Fact Sheet
- EPA: HFC Allowance Allocation and Reporting
- EPA: Residential Air Conditioning and the Phaseout of HCFC-22
- ACCA: EPA lifts R-410A installation deadline, but refrigerant prices could rise
- Carrier: Understanding R-454B Refrigerant