Mauzy Cooling, Heating, Plumbing, and Electrical is proud to serve homeowners across San Diego County with honest, high-quality home comfort solutions. As part of our ongoing commitment to energy efficiency and environmental responsibility, we want to help our community understand one of the biggest changes happening in the HVAC industry today — the refrigerant transition away from R-410A.
If you’ve heard your technician mention “new refrigerant standards” or “A2L refrigerants,” you’re not alone. Let’s break down what’s changing, why it matters, and what San Diego homeowners should know before upgrading or repairing their air conditioning systems.
What Is R-410A, and Why Was It the Standard?
For the past two decades, R-410A refrigerant — often marketed under brand names like Puron — has been the industry standard for air conditioners and heat pumps. It replaced R-22 (Freon) in the early 2010s because it was safer for the ozone layer and offered higher energy efficiency.
However, as technology and environmental regulations have evolved, R-410A has come under scrutiny for its high global warming potential (GWP). Even though it’s ozone-safe, it still contributes to greenhouse gas emissions when leaked or improperly handled.
That’s why the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and international climate agreements have set in motion a new phaseout plan — one that will reshape how cooling systems are designed, installed, and maintained.
Why R-410A Is Being Phased Out
The U.S. AIM Act (American Innovation and Manufacturing Act) mandates a gradual reduction in the production and import of high-GWP hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) like R-410A. The goal is a 40% reduction in HFC use by 2028, with further cuts planned through 2036.
For homeowners, this means:
- R-410A will become harder (and more expensive) to source over the next few years.
- New HVAC systems will transition to next-generation refrigerants with lower environmental impact.
- Technicians and manufacturers are updating equipment designs and safety protocols to support the change.
In short: the phaseout isn’t a cause for alarm — but it’s definitely something to plan for if your system is more than 8–10 years old.
The Future: Meet R-32 and R-454B
The two leading replacements for R-410A are R-32 and R-454B. These refrigerants are part of a new class known as A2L refrigerants, which are mildly flammable but significantly better for the planet.
R-32
- Global Warming Potential: About 67% lower than R-410A.
- Performance: Excellent efficiency and cooling capacity.
- Adoption: Already widely used in Europe and Asia.
R-454B (marketed as “Puron Advance”)
- Global Warming Potential: Roughly 78% lower than R-410A.
- Performance: Comparable to R-410A with slightly lower pressure and improved environmental metrics.
- Adoption: Many major manufacturers (Carrier, Bryant, and others) are transitioning to R-454B in 2025 and beyond.
Both refrigerants require new equipment specifically designed to handle A2L safety standards — meaning existing R-410A systems cannot simply be “retrofitted” with the new refrigerants.
What Homeowners Need to Know in 2025
As we move into 2025, new efficiency and refrigerant standards will affect how all central air conditioners and heat pumps are manufactured and installed. Here’s what that means for San Diego homeowners:
1. Existing Systems Can Still Be Serviced
If you currently own an R-410A system, don’t panic. Mauzy’s technicians are certified to safely service, recharge, and maintain these systems for years to come. However, keep in mind that R-410A refrigerant will become more expensive as supplies shrink.
2. Replacement Systems Will Use New Refrigerants
If your air conditioner is nearing replacement age (10–15 years old), your next system will likely use R-32 or R-454B. Mauzy’s team stays up to date on all new equipment standards to ensure installations meet both EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) requirements.
3. Safety and Installation Protocols Are Changing
A2L refrigerants require specialized handling and ventilation procedures. That’s why it’s essential to work with licensed professionals like Mauzy, who are trained and certified for safe A2L installation and servicing.
4. Expect Improved Efficiency
The new refrigerants are more thermodynamically efficient, meaning your next HVAC system will likely offer lower operating costs, quieter performance, and better reliability — all while being more eco-friendly.
Environmental and Community Impact
San Diego County is already a leader in sustainability, and this refrigerant transition aligns perfectly with California’s broader environmental goals. By adopting lower-GWP refrigerants, homeowners help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support a cleaner, healthier environment for future generations.
Mauzy is proud to be part of this effort. As a family-owned company rooted in the local community, we take our environmental responsibility seriously — from promoting energy-efficient equipment to ensuring safe refrigerant recovery and disposal.
When Should You Upgrade Your System?
If your current system is:
- Over 10 years old
- Struggling to maintain cooling performance
- Using more energy than usual
- Requiring frequent refrigerant recharges
…then now is the perfect time to explore R-454B or R-32 compatible systems. By planning your upgrade early, you can avoid rising refrigerant costs and benefit from rebates and incentives that reward energy-efficient installations.
Mauzy’s experts can evaluate your system, explain your options, and recommend a timeline that makes financial and environmental sense.
Why Choose Mauzy
With decades of experience serving San Diego County, Mauzy has earned a reputation for excellence, integrity, and innovation. Our certified technicians understand every aspect of the refrigerant transition and will guide you through the process with clarity and care.
Whether you need maintenance, repairs, or a full system replacement, Mauzy offers complete HVAC, plumbing, and electrical services under one trusted name — backed by family values and local expertise.
Call to Action
Need help navigating the refrigerant transition?
Call Mauzy today for honest answers and professional guidance from San Diego’s trusted HVAC experts.Considering a new system?
Schedule your consultation with Mauzy and experience comfort done right — the energy-efficient way.