Technology is constantly changing. As you can see with your electronics like phones, tablets, and computers, new options are constantly becoming available, and old ones are phased out. This is true of HVAC technology as well.
New advances in what’s possible make it so that older systems fall out of favor. In order to reduce environmental impacts, potentially harmful or less efficient HVAC technology or components are sometimes phased out of production. There are new EPA regulations coming soon that will limit the availability of certain AC refrigerants. How will this affect you? Here’s the info you need.
What Is Changing?
The AIM Act, which stands for the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act, was first enacted in 2020. The goal of this legislation is to reduce reliance on certain hydrofluorocarbons or HFCs. One of these is the refrigerant R410-A, which has been used in air conditioners for many years.
It’s possible that you’ve never heard of R410-A, but you may have heard of some of the brand names it is sold as. AZ-20, EcoFluor R410, Forane 410A, Genetron R410A, Puron, and Suva 410A are all the same substance, just produced by different manufacturers. Chances are, this is what you have in your AC system.
The first phase of directly restricting the use of this refrigerant will happen in January 2025, when manufacturers will no longer be able to make new air conditioning systems that rely on R410-A. It will still be allowable for the refrigerant to be produced for use in repairing old systems, but much less of it will be produced. This will make it more expensive.
Cost Concerns for Consumers
Whenever restrictions are enacted and manufacturing is limited, there are impacts for consumers. In general, this means that prices of a variety of related substances, components, or systems are likely to go up. How will you be affected? If you need an old AC system repaired, the refrigerant may be more costly or harder to find. But what about new systems?
If you think you’ll need a new air conditioner within the next couple of years, it’s a good idea to explore your options now. You’ll probably get a much better deal on an air conditioner in the last few months of 2024 than you’ll be able to once the regulations take effect in 2025. At the very least, it’s worth getting some information so you can make an informed choice.
We’re happy to help you figure out what AC system will work best for your home and your family’s needs. We also want to be considerate of the financial burden on our friends and neighbors, so it is our goal to provide thorough information and guidance about the potential new AC costs.
Forewarned is forearmed, so take the time to have a conversation with an expert in all things HVAC in Akron, OH about what your options are.
Contact Crown Group Ohio today with any questions about air conditioning systems or to make an appointment.