Why Are We Switching AC Refrigerants in 2025?

If you're considering upgrading your air conditioning system, you might have heard a lot of buzz about refrigerants lately. Whether you're shopping for a new mini split system or simply curious about what’s changing in the HVAC world, you're probably wondering: Why are we switching refrigerants in 2025?

In this blog, we’ll break down the ins and outs of refrigerants in split-system air conditioners, specifically what this transition means for you as a consumer. We’ll also dive into what’s changing in 2025, how refrigerant types differ, and why the move towards more environmentally friendly options is essential. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of this shift and how it impacts your cooling system.

A Quick Overview of Refrigerants in Split-System Air Conditioners

Split-system air conditioners use refrigerants to cool the air in your home. The refrigerant absorbs the heat from inside your home and releases it outside, effectively lowering the temperature of the air you breathe. However, the type of refrigerant used in your AC plays a key role not only in its performance but also in its environmental impact.

Historically, air conditioners have relied on refrigerants like R-22 (also known as Freon) and R-410A. These refrigerants work by circulating through the system, where they change from liquid to gas, removing heat as they evaporate and expelling it outdoors. While these refrigerants were effective in doing their job, they have come under scrutiny due to their environmental impact.

What’s Happening in 2025? The Refrigerant Shift

In 2025, major changes are coming to the HVAC industry. The United States and other countries around the world are pushing forward with stricter regulations aimed at reducing the environmental harm caused by traditional refrigerants. The push to phase out older refrigerants like R-22, and even R-410A in some instances, is part of a broader effort to combat climate change and reduce the ozone depletion potential (ODP) and global warming potential (GWP) of common refrigerants.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and international treaties such as the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol have set clear goals for the reduction of high-GWP refrigerants. By 2025, refrigerants with lower GWP ratings will be the standard, and many older refrigerants will no longer be legally available for production or sale.

Why the Refrigerant Transition Matters: Environmental Regulations

The main motivation behind the refrigerant transition is to protect our planet. Refrigerants like R-22 and R-410A, though effective in cooling, have been found to contribute to ozone depletion and climate change. When these gases are released into the atmosphere, whether due to leaks, poor maintenance, or improper disposal, they can trap heat and damage the ozone layer, which is critical for shielding the Earth from harmful UV radiation.

Newer refrigerants, like R-32 and R-454B, have much lower GWPs, meaning they are far less harmful to the environment. These refrigerants are not only better for the Earth but also help meet the increasing regulatory demands of governments worldwide, including those in the U.S., EU, and parts of Asia. With this shift, air conditioning manufacturers like TURBRO are helping reduce the HVAC industry’s carbon footprint and contributing to broader global efforts to slow climate change.

Refrigerant Differences: What’s Changing and Why?

The key difference between older refrigerants like R-22 or R-410A and newer alternatives lies in their GWP ratings. R-410A, for instance, has a GWP of 2,088, meaning it is 2,088 times more effective at trapping heat in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide. On the other hand, R-32, which is gaining popularity in newer systems, has a GWP of just 675, making it a much more climate-friendly choice. Lastly, the GWP of R-454B refrigerant is only 466, which is 78% lower than R-410A. 

Not only do these newer refrigerants have a lower environmental impact, but they also often provide better efficiency, which means your AC could work more efficiently, cooling your home faster and with less energy consumption. This translates into lower utility bills and a more sustainable solution.

TURBRO Mini Split ACs and the Refrigerant Shift

The TURBRO Greenland Mini Split AC, like many of the modern systems available today, is transitioning to using more eco-friendly refrigerants. Older TURBRO Greenland Mini Split ACs use the R-410a refrigerant and will be transitioning over to R-454B in 2025.  The TURBRO Finnmark models already utilize R-32 refrigerant, ensuring they comply with 2025 regulations and offer greater energy efficiency for users.

If you’re considering a new system for your home or business, upgrading to a TURBRO Greenland Mini Split AC can help you stay ahead of the curve. These systems are designed with the future in mind, using refrigerants that are not only more efficient but also aligned with global sustainability goals.

The Bottom Line: Why the 2025 Refrigerant Transition Matters for You

As a consumer, this shift may seem like a small detail, but it’s actually a big deal when you consider the long-term benefits. The transition to more eco-friendly refrigerants will:

1. Reduce your carbon footprint – By choosing air conditioners that use low-GWP refrigerants, you’re contributing to a healthier planet.
2. Increase energy efficiency – New refrigerants like R-32 and R-454B are more efficient at cooling, meaning your system will run better, consume less energy, and reduce your utility bills.
3. Future-proof your investment – As regulations tighten, older refrigerants like R-22 and R-410a  will become harder to find. By investing in a newer system now, you avoid potential future issues with maintenance and refrigerant availability.

Ultimately, this change is a win-win: it’s good for the planet and great for your home comfort. If you’re in the market for a new air conditioning system, now is the time to consider upgrading to one that uses a more sustainable refrigerant. With the TURBRO Greenland Mini Split AC, you can enjoy the benefits of modern efficiency while staying environmentally responsible.

Want to learn more about Mini Split ACs and how they can benefit your home? Check out these links to explore our offerings:

• TURBRO Greenland and Finnmark Single Zone Mini Split Air Conditioners
• TURBRO Greenland Multi-zone Mini Split Air Conditioner

By embracing this change, you're not only improving the quality of your indoor air but also making a positive impact on the environment.