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What Kind of Refrigerant Do Heat Pumps Use?

Heat pumps are a versatile solution for maintaining year-round comfort in your home. They deliver efficient performance for both heating and cooling. One secret to their success is the refrigerant they use to transfer heat in and out of your home.

Heat pumps do use refrigerant, and over the years, this refrigerant has evolved. Early systems relied on R-22 (Freon), which was phased out due to environmental concerns. It was replaced by R-410A (Puron), and as of 2023, a new refrigerant, R-454B, is making its debut in the HVAC world.

The AIM Act & Phase-Down of Hydrofluorocarbons

The type of refrigerant your heat pump uses doesn’t just depend on the year it was made — it also depends on federal regulations. The American Innovation & Manufacturing Act (AIM Act) of 2020 set the stage for a significant phase-down of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), including R-410A. This legislation empowered the EPA to reduce the production and use of HFCs across industries, including HVAC, through 2036.

Why did this change happen? HFCs, while ozone-safe, have a high global warming potential (GWP), which contributes to climate change. By transitioning to refrigerants with a lower GWP, like R-454B, the HVAC industry is taking significant steps toward reducing its environmental impact.

For homeowners, these regulations ensure that new systems align with eco-friendly standards, benefiting both the planet and your wallet in the long run.

New Refrigerant Requirements in 2023

An air conditioner technician is using a gauge to measure the refrigerant pressure of a unit

Starting in 2023, new HVAC systems, including heat pumps, are required to use R-454B instead of R-410A. This cutting-edge refrigerant combines R-32 (a hydrofluorocarbon) with R-1234yf (a hydrofluoroolefin), creating a blend that’s effective and more sustainable.

R-454B boasts a GWP more than 75% lower than its predecessor, R-410A. It has no ozone depletion potential (ODP), low toxicity, and meets the EPA’s stringent low-GWP standards. It’s also more energy-efficient, making it a win-win for both homeowners and the environment. These changes only impact newly manufactured units — older systems are designed specifically for their original refrigerant, such as R-22 or R-410A.

What Refrigerant Is in My Heat Pump?

The refrigerant in your heat pump depends largely on when it was installed:

  • Before 2010: R-22 (Freon) was still in use but was being phased out.
  • 2010 to 2022: Most units produced during this period use R-410A (Puron).
  • 2023 and beyond: Newly installed systems rely on R-454B, the EPA-approved refrigerant for modern HVAC systems.

Understanding which refrigerant your system uses is crucial, especially when considering maintenance or repairs. Refrigerants like R-22 are increasingly expensive due to their limited availability.

Installing a New Heat Pump With R-454B Refrigerant

As the phase-down of R-410A continues, its price is expected to rise, just as Freon costs soared during its phase-out. By installing a new heat pump with R-454B, you’re investing in a future-proof system that’s both eco-friendly and cost-effective. Plus, R-454B systems offer improved energy efficiency, which translates to lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint.

When you’re ready to upgrade, Damiani’s Comfort Design is here to help. As a certified Lennox dealer, we can install a new Lennox heat pump that fits your budget and your home’s needs. Our certified Home Comfort Heroes are prompt, professional, and efficient, ensuring a smooth installation process every time.

Contact Damiani’s today to schedule a consultation for your new heat pump installation.

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