The HVAC industry is on the cusp of a transformative era as it takes the next step in reducing HFCs and moving towards more environmentally friendly refrigerants. With the enactment of the AIM Act and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations, dealers find themselves having to prepare their businesses for this upcoming transition. Lennox is one of many OEMs at the forefront of the 2025 refrigerant transition and has provided resources to equip dealers to navigate this transition with confidence.

Unlike the transition from R-22, which posed significant challenges and required changes for dealers, the move to R-454B is expected to be relatively smooth. With its similarities to R-410A, many of the practices and procedures used today will remain applicable. The transition represents a significant step forward in reducing the environmental impact of HVAC, while ensuring continuity in serviceability and reliability.

While this transition is not expected to have as large of an impact as the last transition in 2010, it’s important for dealers to still know how this change will impact serviceability of existing and new units, their business’ product mix, and the HVAC industry looking forward.

Lower-GWP Solutions

The 2025 refrigerant transition requires HVAC products manufactured by OEMs to use a refrigerant with a lower GWP to align with HFC-reduction plans outlined by the EPA. This means that all HVAC OEMs will be converting to either R-32 or R-454B by 2025.

Lennox's choice of R-454B across its entire product lineup was rooted in a thorough evaluation process, considering factors such as ease of installation and service, safety, and environmental impact. For Lennox, R-454B supports the life expectancy and durability expected of a system, compatibility with existing product components and applications, as well as its ability to efficiently cool and heat a home in extreme weather conditions.

Rest assured, this transition won’t create a heavy burden for installers and technicians. Systems continue to match up as before, and service practices remain the same. Because R-454B and R-32 have similar properties to the current R-410A refrigerant being used by OEMs, there are limited changes to installation requirements.

One key difference is the tools used to service units. Ensuring that your tools like vacuum pumps and recovery machines are listed for use with an A2L will be important, due to R-454B and R-32 being slightly more flammable than R-410A.

For existing units, Lennox will continue to offer R-410A repair coils, parts, and R-410A refrigerant for servicing after the 2025 refrigerant transition. Initial costs for compliant systems may be higher, so it’s important for dealers to consider the unique needs of their business and have a strategy for their product mix. Some may choose to stock up on R-410A products now and then transition to new refrigerant systems at a later time. Others may choose to proactively convert to new compliant systems early on. 

While installing and servicing units, dealers may also want to consider participating in a refrigerant reclaim program for recovered R-22 and R-410A refrigerant. Lennox has teamed up with Hudson Technologies for the Lennox Reclaim Program.

Dealers can expect to see most 2025 refrigerant-compliant products hit the market this summer, ahead of the transition on January 1, 2025.

Proactive measures by Lennox and other HVAC OEMs have spurred the development of products that help mitigate safety concerns through integration of refrigerant detection systems across all HVAC systems. These systems are designed to dissipate a refrigerant leak if detected, ensuring safe operation and peace of mind.

What’s Next?

The next reduction in HFC usage is projected to be in 2034, allowing time for the industry to prepare.

With a growing number of states, like California, New York, and Washington, developing their own regulations on low-GWP refrigerants, it’s important for dealers to remain aware of upcoming regulations, not only on the federal level, but also in the local areas where they provide service. By actively participating in shaping present and future regulations within local government and helping advance technologies, Lennox reaffirms its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and the well-being of dealers and homeowners.

Lennox dealers can access more details on 2025-compliant products, including introduction dates and phase-out plans for our current equipment by visiting LennoxPros.com.