Making the Switch: From R410A to R454B Refrigerants Explained 

We are seeing a major change in the HVAC space – a switch from R-410A to R-454B refrigerant. This shift marks a major advancement in the HVAC system landscape as it prioritizes efficiency and environmental concerns. This transition which is driven by global sustainability goals is bringing about significant changes in the performance of air conditioners and maintenance practices.

This video is sourced from YouTube@CST ChillingSolutionsTraining

Let’s understand both these refrigerants for ACs - R-410A and R-454B and why making this switch is essential. 

Table of Contents 

• Understanding R-410A and R-454B Refrigerants: Comparisons
• R-410A and R-454B Refrigerants: Technical Differences
• R-454B Refrigerant: Impact on Air Conditioning Performance and Maintenance
• Key Differences Comparison Table for R-454B vs. R-410A
• Why R-134A and R-290 Are Not Suitable Replacements for R-410A?
• Industry Leaders Taking the Initiative to Implement R-454B
• Actionable Advice for Homeowners and Businesses

Understanding R-410A and R-454B Refrigerants: Comparisons

Let’s understand the two refrigerants – R-410A and R-454B.

R-410A - The Established Standard: Why Is R-410A Being Phased Out?

A widely used refrigerant in modern air conditioning systems, the R-410A, also called Puron, was launched in the 1990s. It was actually a replacement for the R-22 refrigerant (Freon) because of its zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) and its enhanced cooling efficiency.

It is a combination of R-125 and R-32 refrigerant, and due to its higher operating pressures, better heat transfer is made possible. However, because the R-410A refrigerant has a high global warming potential (GWP) of 2,088, it plays a major role in climate change, which is why regulations are taking steps to phase it out.

In 2025 the R-410A is being phased out of new air conditioning systems and the R-454B is taking its place. The R-454B is a next-generation refrigerant with a 78% lower GWP (466) that has a similar cooling power as the R-410A refrigerant. This important change is very much in line with the global environmental objectives that are on the lookout to minimize high-GWP refrigerants. Upgrading to R-454B refrigerant ensures compliance, increased efficiency, and less environmental impact.

R-454B - The Eco-Friendly New Refrigerant 2025: Why R-454B Is the Best Replacement for R-410A?

R-454B, the next-generation refrigerant, also known as Puron Advance, was developed to replace the R-410A that dominated the HVAC refrigerant market since the phase-out of the R-22. It is a combination of R-32 and R-1234yf that is intended to provide 78% less global warming potential (GWP 466) while maintaining the same cooling performance as R-410A.

Additionally, it is easy to integrate into HVAC systems because it has zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) and similar operating pressures as the R-410A. However, it has been categorized as mildly flammable (A2L), but it is safe to use nonetheless, if properly handled and installed. 

The driving force behind the switch or phase-out of the R-410A is the environmental laws including the U.S. AIM Act and Kigali Amendment that aim at lessening the climatic impact of refrigerants. In order to ensure sustainability, efficiency, and compliance, HVAC manufacturers are now creating systems that are compatible with the R-454B refrigerant. With this upgrade, there will surely be high-performance cooling while reducing the carbon footprint.

R-410A and R-454B Refrigerants: Technical Differences

Let’s understand the technical differences between the two further in terms of GWP, safety, and performance. 

Global Warming Potential (GWP): Considering that Global Warming Potential (GWP) is one of the major reasons for the switch from R-410A to R-454B, it’s important for you to know what GWP is. Global Warming Potential is basically a measurement of how much a substance, over a set period of time, contributes to global warming in comparison to carbon dioxide. Hence, the lower the GWP, the lesser the impact on the environment. Considering that the GWP of the R-410A refrigerant is 2,088 and the GWP of the R-454B is 466, it is quite obvious that the R-454B refrigerant is a much more eco-friendly option.
 
Flammability and Safety: When it comes to flammability, the R-410A is classified as non-flammable, earning it a safety classification of A1. However, the R-454B refrigerant is classified as mildly flammable, hence, earning it a safety classification of A2L. But to make sure it is safe, the R-454B has to be handled cautiously and the equipment designs need to be modified accordingly. For this, technicians have to be well-trained to manage the specific properties of the R-454B, following all safety protocols to avoid any mishaps. 

Performance Characteristics: When compared to the R-410A refrigerant, the R-454B refrigerant shows quite similar, if not marginally better, coefficients of performance (COP). This indicates that HVAC systems that operate with the R-454B refrigerant can actually function more efficiently while achieving similar cooling capacities and reducing the impact on the environment. Furthermore, R-454B has a low temperature glide of about 1.5°F, which, albeit being quite minimal, does require accurate calculations for system design and performance evaluations.

R-454B Refrigerant: Impact on Air Conditioning Performance and Maintenance

System Efficiency

The R-454B comes with advantageous thermodynamic properties. Basically, this means how a substance behaves under different temperatures and pressures, impacting heat transfer, energy efficiency, and system performance. Hence, manufacturers are coming up with new efficient equipment designs that will take complete advantage of these features. This will result in HVAC systems to provide efficient cooling while using less energy. This shift benefits both the environmental objectives and the consumer’s cost savings.

Maintenance Considerations of the R-454B

Several maintenance implications come with the R-454B:

● Technician Training: HVAC professionals need to have specialized training to handle the R-454B refrigerant. It is really essential for technicians to understand the flammable properties of this refrigerant so that they can install and carry out all maintenance procedures safely. 

● Leak Detection: Considering that the R-454B has been classified as mildly flammable (A2L), it is very important that proper refrigerant leak detection protocols and measures be set in place. For instance, routine inspections are needed. Technicians can use electronic leak detectors and UV dyes can also be very useful to address the leak issues immediately and address the problem.

● Component Compatibility: Due to differences in pressure and flammability classifications, upgrading existing R-410A systems with R-454B is generally not advised. To maintain system integrity, parts like compressors, seals, and lubricants need to be compatible with R-454B's characteristics.

Key Differences Comparison Table for R-410A vs. R-454B

Now that you have a better understanding of the R-410A and the R-454B refrigerant, let’s just quickly take a look at the other two refrigerants - R-134A and R-290. Let’s understand why they aren’t suitable replacements before we discuss the R-454B further.

Why R-134A and R-290 Are Not Suitable Replacements for R-410A?

Here’s why the R-134A refrigerant and R-290 refrigerant are not suitable replacements for R-410A.

R-134A (tetrafluoroethane) – Not Suitable for Standard AC Systems

● Operates at a much lower pressure than R-410A and R-454B. This is not suitable because air conditioning systems require higher pressure to provide efficient cooling.

● Lacks the cooling capacity needed for larger-scale HVAC systems.

● Has a GWP of 1,430, which is quite high when compared to the GWP of the R-454B refrigerant which stands at 466. 

R-290 (propane) – Too Flammable for Large HVAC Systems

● Though it has a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 3, making it absolutely environmentally friendly, the R-290 refrigerant comes with an A3 classification, making it highly flammable. 

● R-290 cannot be used in huge amounts in air conditioners due to charge constraints, which makes it impractical for cooling large areas.

● Because it is highly inflammable, HVAC systems will need a complete redesign to ensure fire safety and leak prevention.

Industry Leaders Taking the Initiative to Implement R-454B

In order to comply with market needs and environmental requirements, industry leaders have taken the initiative to implement the R-454B refrigerant in their HVAC systems. In North America, for example, Carrier – one of the leaders in manufacturing and distributing HVAC systems – began introducing the R-454B or Puron Advance, the next-generation refrigerant for ducted residential and light commercial appliances, in 2023. Trane's adoption of R-454B in its HVAC manufacturing processes also showcases a similar dedication to sustainability and adherence to changing environmental regulations.

Actionable Advice for Homeowners and Businesses

●Always stay informed about any local or national regulations regarding refrigerant use and phase-downs. By doing so, you will be able to make decisions on time for yourself and the environment. 

● Those who have an HVAC system with the R-410A refrigerant, make sure to maintain it well. But when looking to upgrade to the R-454B, consult a professional first because older systems designed for the R-410A may not be compatible with the R-454B. Get clarity on what can be done best. 

● If you plan to buy a new AC, then go for models that are designed for R-454B.

● Make sure that your systems are being installed and maintained by HVAC professionals who are trained to handle the units with the R-454B since they are A2L classified. 

● Select HVAC brands with a solid track record of innovation and adherence to changing refrigerant regulations. GARVEE air conditioners are among them.

It makes quite a lot of sense for businesses and homeowners to switch to an R-454B-compliant system if they want to future-proof their HVAC investments. It not only lowers the environmental impact but also improves system performance while adhering to the refrigerant standards of 2025.

Starting April 2025, GARVEE air conditioners will come with the R-454B refrigerant, ensuring that customers have ACs that are highly efficient and environmentally friendly. 

Explore GARVEE’s range of air conditioners for a cool and comfortable home here

More to read

Air Conditioner 101: The Ultimate Glossary of Air Conditioner Terms Every Buyer Should Know