Understanding R-454B and R-410A: What Homeowners and Business Owners Need to Know

If you’ve recently looked into upgrading your air conditioning system or had service done, you may have heard about R-454B, the new refrigerant replacing R-410A. But what does this change mean for you as a homeowner or business owner? And how does it affect the HVAC system you currently use?

Let’s break it down.

What Is R-410A?

R-410A, also known by the brand name Puron, has been the industry standard refrigerant in HVAC systems for over two decades. It's more efficient and environmentally friendly than older refrigerants like R-22, which were phased out due to ozone depletion.

However, R-410A still has a high Global Warming Potential (GWP), and new environmental regulations are pushing the HVAC industry toward cleaner, lower-impact alternatives.

Meet R-454B: The Next Generation Refrigerant

R-454B is the next step forward. It’s being introduced as a more environmentally responsible replacement for R-410A in new HVAC systems. Compared to R-410A, R-454B offers:

• Lower GWP (78% lower than R-410A)

• Better energy efficiency

• Comparable performance

• Lower environmental impact

Starting in 2025, most manufacturers will begin phasing in R-454B systems, and by the end of the decade, R-410A equipment will be increasingly rare.

Can I Still Use My R-410A System?

Yes—for now. If you have an existing R-410A system, you don’t need to replace it immediately. However, keep in mind:

• Parts and refrigerant for R-410A will become harder to find and more expensive over time.

• If your system is aging or inefficient, now may be a smart time to consider upgrading to a new R-454B system.

• Mixing R-410A and R-454B is not possible—they are not interchangeable.

What Should You Do Now?

If your system is newer and still running well, regular maintenance is the best way to extend its life. But if it’s over 10 years old, or you’re facing expensive repairs, it might be more cost-effective to invest in an R-454B system now and be future-ready.

At Hoosier Man HVAC & Plumbing, we’re trained and certified to install and service both R-410A and R-454B systems. We can help you make the right choice based on your budget, your home or building’s needs, and what will save you the most money in the long run.

Have questions about refrigerant changes or system upgrades?
Call us at 317-657-9818 or visit hmanhcp.com to schedule a consultation.

We’re here to keep you cool—now and in the future.