R-454B vs R-410A: The New AC Refrigerant

What changed

Under the federal AIM Act, new residential air conditioners and heat pumps made since January 1, 2025 must use refrigerants with a much lower global warming impact than R-410A. Most new systems now use R-454B or R-32, and new installations in 2026 use these newer refrigerants.

If your AC uses R-410A

• You do not have to replace it: it can keep running and be repaired
• R-410A is still available for service, but production is being reduced, so its price can go up over the years
• A leak is worth fixing properly instead of recharging over and over
• An R-410A system cannot be converted to R-454B; the parts are designed for each refrigerant

If you are replacing your AC

• The indoor and outdoor units must be replaced together as a matched system for the new refrigerant
• R-454B and R-32 are classified as mildly flammable (A2L), so new systems include safety features such as leak sensors and must be installed by trained technicians
• New equipment is more efficient, which helps offset part of the cost on your power bill

And R-22?

Systems with R-22 are the oldest still running in Miami. R-22 is no longer produced, so repairs that need refrigerant get expensive quickly. In most cases, replacing the system is the better long-term decision.

Need help with this?

A new system should fit the house, the ductwork, and your budget. We measure before we recommend, explain the options, and install cleanly.