As your local expert on heating and cooling in Winston-Salem, we believe in educating our customers about important changes in the HVAC industry. One of these upcoming changes will affect air conditioning systems. New EPA regulations that will take effect in 2025 will limit the availability of certain refrigerants.
How will this affect homeowners across the US? In a nutshell, this means that the cost of air conditioning, heat pump, and mini split systems is expected to increase starting in 2025. If you plan on purchasing a new AC system in the next two years, you might want to do so sooner rather than later. Here’s the info you need to make an informed decision.
The AIM Act and Refrigerant Changes
The AIM Act (American Innovation and Manufacturing Act) was created to reduce the use of certain hydrofluorocarbons or HFCs. One of these is the refrigerant R-410A which has been used in air conditioners for years. R-410A is sold under different names including AZ-20, EcoFluor R410, Forane 410A, Genetron R-410A, Puron, and Suva 410A. Chances are, your air conditioning system or heat pump uses this type of refrigerant.
The first phase of directly restricting the use of this refrigerant will occur in January 2025. Manufacturers will no longer be able to make AC systems that rely on any form of R-410A. Production of the refrigerant for use in repairing old systems will still be allowed, but less of it will be produced, making it more expensive. The manufacturing and sale of systems that use R-410A will be prohibited starting January 1, 2026. The price will only increase for these systems and this kind of refrigerant as supply dwindles.
Cost Concerns for Consumers
Whenever restrictions are enacted and manufacturing is limited on HVAC equipment and systems, it directly impacts consumers. This means that prices of related substances, components, or systems are going to increase. This is not a possibility, but a certainty.
If you own an AC system that uses R-410A, the refrigerant may be more costly or eventually become harder for HVAC companies to source. When supply goes down and demand increases, the cost of materials inevitably increases. For AC systems that have a refrigerant leak, it will eventually cost more to recharge the system.
Homeowners who will need a new AC system in the near future are the ones who will be more directly impacted. If you think you’ll need a new air conditioner before 2027, we encourage you to start exploring your options now. The cost of air conditioners, heat pumps, and ductless mini splits is expected to rise as early as 2025 when the first phase of the regulations takes effect.
Rely on All-Phase to Keep You Informed
We hope this information will be useful to homeowners. We believe in relaying upcoming changes in the HVAC industry to our customers so that they can be informed consumers. If you have any questions about the AIM Act and how it may affect you, contact us today and we will be happy to answer any additional questions you may have.
Contact All-Phase Cooling and Heating for HVAC services in Winston Salem, NC. Making Your Home More Comfortable Is What We Do Best.