If you’re a homeowner in Wise County, TX, here’s something important you need to know: significant changes to the HVAC industry are upon us. And these changes could affect your comfort, budget, and peace of mind.
As of January 1, 2025, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has phased out a common refrigerant used in most residential HVAC systems today—R-410A. In its place, newer, more eco-friendly refrigerants are taking center stage. That might not sound like a big deal at first, but this shift could directly impact your home, your wallet, and when (or how) you replace your AC or heat pump.
At Empire Heating & Air, we’re here to help you make sense of all this. In this post, we’ll break down what’s changing, why it matters to you, and what you can do right now to stay ahead of the game (and save a lot of hassle and money later on).
What’s Happening with HVAC in 2025?
Let’s start with the basics. Under a federal law called the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act, the EPA required manufacturers to stop producing new HVAC systems that use R-410A refrigerant. R-410A has been the standard refrigerant in home ACs and heat pumps for years—but it’s got a high global warming potential (GWP), which means it contributes to climate change when released into the atmosphere.
Now, new refrigerants like R-454B and R-32 have been introduced. These are classified as A2L refrigerants—they’re still non-toxic but are considered mildly flammable. Don’t worry—modern systems are designed to handle these refrigerants safely.
How does all this affect you, the homeowner?
Well, the good news is, if your HVAC system uses R-410A (and most do), it won’t be illegal to keep using it. However… if your system breaks or needs replacing, you’ll likely need to switch to a new system that uses the newer refrigerants. Unfortunately, these new systems with A2L refrigerants will be more expensive. Industry experts estimate a 20–30% price increase on these newer units due to updated safety features and new manufacturing requirements.
Repairs on older systems might get more expensive too, as parts and refrigerants become harder to find. Demand will go up, so prices will go up… and wait times could increase.
If you plan ahead now, you can save money, avoid the rush, and stay comfortable without interruptions.
What’s Changing with A2L Refrigerants?
R-454B and R-32 are what you’ll find in the next generation of HVAC systems. They’re much better for the environment, with a global warming potential about 78% lower than R-410A. That’s a big win for sustainability—and over time, it could lead to lower energy costs for you, too.
But with any new technology, there’s a learning curve.
Safety and System Design Updates
Because A2L refrigerants are mildly flammable, systems must be designed with additional safety features—like improved leak detection and better airflow management. Technicians need special training to install and service these systems properly. Your home’s layout might influence the best system, so a custom consultation is key.
The Real Cost of Waiting
We get it—if your HVAC system is still running okay, you might be thinking, “I’ll just wait until it breaks down.” But here’s why that strategy could cost you more later.
- Prices Are Going Up: New refrigerant systems are expected to cost 20–30% more in 2025 and beyond. Why? They require redesigned components and safety upgrades. Manufacturers are passing those costs onto their consumer.uggle to keep up.
- Supply Chain and Part Shortages: As R-410A systems are phased out, manufacturers will stop producing older parts. If your system needs a repair and the part isn’t available, you might be forced into a full replacement sooner than expected—and at a higher price.
- Retrofitting Is Limited: While it might be possible to retrofit some systems, not all existing units are compatible with the new refrigerants. It could be costly and only offer a temporary solution even if you can retrofit it.
5 Things You Can Do Now
If your system is more than 10 years old, or you’ve noticed it’s not cooling or heating like it used to, now is the time to take action. Here’s how:
- Schedule a System Inspection: Give Empire Heating & Air a call, and one of our professionals will come out and identify your current refrigerant type, check your system’s age and condition. If you are interested, we will provide personalized recommendations based on your home. Remember, a checkup now could help you plan and avoid surprise breakdowns later.
- Consider Early Replacement: Having a brand new, reliable, and proven HVAC system installed in your home will help you avoid price hikes going forward. You’ll enjoy better comfort and energy savings immediately. Plus, you can compare options instead of rushing through a costly emergency replacement in the heat of summer.
- Explore Rebates and Federal Tax Credits: Because of the Inflation Reduction Act passed by Congress, you can earn up to 30% off the cost of a qualifying system in federal tax credit. That includes up to $600 for air conditioners and $2,000 for heat pumps. There are also a number of Texas utility companies that offer incentives for energy-efficient upgrades.
Work with Certified HVAC Pros
Not all HVAC companies are ready for this transition. With mildly flammable refrigerants and new installation requirements, you want a trained and experienced contractor.
Of course, we recommend you choose our team at Empire Heating & Air. We are committed to staying at the forefront of all these sweeping changes, so that we can offer our customers the highest level of service.
Here’s how we’re making this transition seamless for our neighbors here in Paradise and surrounding areas:
- Trained & Certified: All our technicians have completed specialized training for A2L refrigerants. We’re fully equipped to handle the installation, service, and maintenance of both existing and new systems.
- Reliable Inventory: We’re working closely with suppliers to stock R-410A systems now. So homeowners can take advantage of current pricing before the mandate kicks in.
- Honest Guidance: We believe in transparency. We’ll walk you through your options, help you weigh the pros and cons, and never pressure you into a decision. Our goal is your long-term comfort and satisfaction.
- Personalized Solutions: Every home is different. Whether you need a quick repair, a full system replacement, or just a routine inspection, we’ll tailor our services to your home and your needs.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 refrigerant change is one of the biggest shifts the HVAC industry has seen in decades—but with the right plan, it doesn’t have to be a headache. In fact, it’s a great opportunity to improve your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term value.
At Empire Heating & Air, we’re here to help homeowners in North Texas make smart, confident choices. Whether you’re ready to upgrade or want to explore your options, our friendly team stands by. Schedule your HVAC inspection today and take control of your comfort, before prices go up and supplies run out.