As the HVAC industry pivots towards greater sustainability, the shift from R410A to more eco-friendly alternatives like R32 and R454 refrigerants marks a crucial step in reducing environmental impact and improved performance.

R410A has been used as a primary HVAC refrigerant in Canada since the early 2000s, becoming the industry standard by 2010. In 2025, R410A is being phased out of the industry due to environmental concerns. R410A has a high global warming potential (GWP) of 2088, making it a notable contributor to global warming. As environmental regulations are being reinforced, the industry is transitioning towards refrigerants that have a significantly lower global warming potential. R32 and R454 refrigerants present efficient and eco-friendly alternatives that will comply with international sustainability agreements, such as the Montreal Protocol and the AIM Act.

R32: The Balanced Eco-Friendly Refrigerant

R32 is a single-component hydrofluorocarbon refrigerant with a global warming potential of 675, which is significantly lower than R410A’s GWP score of 2088. This makes R32 the sustainable choice that will help the HVAC industry meet international environmental objectives. It is also a more efficient refrigerant, requiring less to reach the same cooling capacity, which will thus help consumers save both energy and money on operational costs.

Many major HVAC manufacturers have already begun their transition towards R32 refrigerant. Japanese manufacturer, Daikin, the world’s largest air conditioner manufacturer, has been a front-runner in the transition towards eco-friendly solutions as they have brought attention to R32’s environmental benefits, safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness for the industry. Other manufacturers like Goodman, Mitsubishi Electric, and Gree have also started integrating R32 into their latest HVAC systems.

R454: The Sustainable Blend

R454 is a series of refrigerant blends created to have a lower environmental impact than that of R410A. R454B and R454C are the most common of the series, both having a relatively low GWP and beneficial performance characteristics.

R454B has a GWP of 466, is non-ozone depleting, and has a low flammability rating, making it far superior to R410A by all environmental considerations. Conveniently, it also has similar thermodynamic properties to R410A refrigerant, allowing for a straightforward transition from the previous generation of HVAC systems.

R454C has an even lower GWP of 148, making it the ideal refrigerant for situations that need the highest environmental consideration. Its operational features makes it suitable for various applications, such as heat pumps and chillers.

Both R32 and R454 refrigerants are being integrated into the latest product lines of industry leading HVAC manufacturers. York, Rheem, Ruud and Ameristar have already begun their transition towards R454, looking to update their HVAC product selection with lower GWP options for consumers.

Transitioning from R410 to R32 and R454 Refrigerants

The introduction of the new R32 and R454 refrigerants means that you can expect new HVAC systems to have updated performance characteristics, system compatibility, and safety standards. In 2025, HVAC professionals everywhere are undergoing customary training and certification programs to bring their knowledge and skills up-to-date with the latest refrigerant technology to ensure that this new tech is installed with optimal safety and effectiveness.

The transition towards R32 and R454 refrigerants is a great sign towards the reduction of the HVAC industry’s carbon footprint on this planet and the goal for a greener future. As more and more manufacturers produce systems using these low GWP refrigerants, we will all benefit from their elevated safety, efficiency, and energy savings in our homes and businesses.

We hope that this brought you up-to-date with the latest zeitgeist in HVAC technology that is the new eco-friendly R32 and R454 refrigerants. Are you currently thinking about upgrading your home’s HVAC system? Our team of trained HVAC professionals would be happy to help you find the best solution for your family’s home comfort. If you’re looking to upgrade your air conditioner, we offer purchase, rental, and financing options for every budget and the top A/C brands on the market, even those with the all new R32 refrigerant. Our quick and efficient air conditioner replacement is done by our team of fully licensed and trained HVAC technicians.

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