What is GWP? (Global Warming Potential)
GWP, or Global Warming Potential, is a measure of how much heat a greenhouse gas traps in the atmosphere over a specific time period, typically 100 years, compared to carbon dioxide (CO2), which has a GWP of 1. The higher the GWP, the more significant the impact on global warming.
Traditional refrigerants like R-410A and R-22 have been used for years, but they carry high GWPs, contributing to climate change. As a result, manufacturers like WaterFurnace are transitioning to lower-GWP refrigerants, R-454B, that are more environmentally responsible.
Starting in 2025, HVAC manufacturers will phase out R-410A in favor of R-454B and other low-GWP alternatives. If you’re considering an HVAC upgrade, choosing a R-454B-compatible system ensures long-term efficiency and compliance with new environmental standards.
What is R-454B?
R-454B is a next-generation, low-GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerant designed to replace R-410A in residential and commercial HVAC systems.
WaterFurnace’s Approach to Low-GWP Refrigerants
WaterFurnace is at the forefront of adopting environmentally friendly refrigerants in their geothermal heat pump systems. Their newest models are utilizing R-454B, a next-generation refrigerant that offers a much lower GWP compared to conventional options.
Benefits of R-454B:
- Lower GWP: R-454B has a GWP of 466, significantly lower than R-410A (which has a GWP of 2,088), making it a more climate-friendly choice.
- Higher Efficiency: This refrigerant enhances system performance, leading to improved energy efficiency and reduced operating costs for homeowners.
- Reduced Carbon Footprint: By switching to a lower-GWP refrigerant, WaterFurnace is helping to mitigate the environmental impact of residential heating and cooling systems.
When is WaterFurnace making this change?
In accordance with regulations, WaterFurnace will no longer be producing geothermal units with R-410A after December 31, 2024. All units manufactured starting January 1, 2025 will contain R-454B. However, there is a “sell through” date that allows the sale (but not manufacturing) of units containing R-410A through 2025.
Key Phase-Out Dates for R-410A:
- January 1, 2025 – The manufacture and import of new HVAC equipment using R-410A will be banned in the U.S.
- 2025-2030 – The transition period where existing R-410A equipment can still be serviced with reclaimed or recycled refrigerant.
What will the phase out of R-410A do to prices for that refrigerant?
Although no one can accurately predict future prices, based on a previous transition from R-22 to R-410A years ago, as mandates to reduce production are implemented over time, costs for R-410A will likely increase significantly.
Will my unit be impacted by this change? Will I have to replace my System?
No, your R-410A system does not have to be replaced. You can continue using your existing system as long as it remains functional. However, there are some important considerations regarding service and refrigerant availability:
What Happens After 2025?
- New R-410A Equipment Ban: Starting January 1, 2025, manufacturers will no longer produce new HVAC units using R-410A in the U.S.
- Servicing Existing Systems: If your system requires repairs or refrigerant refills, reclaimed and recycled R-410A will still be available for servicing.
What Happens After 2030?
- The availability of new R-410A refrigerant will decrease, potentially making it more expensive.
- HVAC technicians will rely on reclaimed R-410A, similar to how older R-22 systems are serviced today.
- If your system is still working efficiently, there is no legal requirement to replace it. However, if your system has major failures (e.g., compressor breakdown), replacing it with an R-454B-compatible system may be a better long-term investment.
Should You Replace Your R-410A System?
- If your system is working well, you don’t need to rush a replacement.
- If your system is aging or inefficient, upgrading to an R-454B system before refrigerant costs rise may be a smart choice.
- Consider energy efficiency—new systems often provide better performance and lower utility bills.
Stay Ahead of Refrigerant Changes with ECS Geothermal
With the phase-out of R-410A beginning in 2025, now is the time to plan for the future of your home’s heating and cooling. The experts at ECS Geothermal are here to help you navigate these changes, ensuring you get the most efficient, environmentally friendly system for your needs. Whether you’re upgrading to a new R-454B-compatible unit or need guidance on maintaining your current system, trust ECS Geothermal to keep your home comfortable and compliant with the latest industry standards.
See Waterfurnaces Consumer Overview of Lower GWP’s – Link to PDF.
WaterFurnace’s Consumer Overview of Lower GWP highlights their commitment to environmentally friendly refrigerants by transitioning to low-GWP alternatives like R-454B. The overview explains the importance of Global Warming Potential (GWP) and how replacing high-GWP refrigerants, such as R-410A, helps reduce environmental impact.
By adopting R-454B, WaterFurnace ensures its systems are future-ready while continuing to offer reliable, energy-efficient home comfort solutions.
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