If your home has an air conditioner, heat pump, or ductless mini-split system, it relies on a chemical called refrigerant to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Refrigerant works by absorbing heat from one place and releasing it somewhere else, helping your HVAC system regulate indoor temperatures. Refrigerant cycles through your HVAC system, so it only needs to be occasionally recharged or replaced if there’s a leak.
One of the most commonly used refrigerants in older systems was R22, part of a group of chemicals often referred to as “Freon.” However, because of its harmful effects on the environment, R22 has been phased out for nearly a decade. And, as of 2025, it’s no longer being manufactured. R410A, an R22 substitute introduced in the 1990s, will also be phased out to follow federal regulations.
So, what does this mean for Michigan homeowners who still rely on R22 or R410A refrigerant?
Here, we’ll break down what’s changing with Freon in 2025, how it could impact your HVAC equipment, and what your options are if your system still uses R22.
What Is the Government HVAC Refrigerant Mandate?
To put it simply: As of January 1, 2025, the Environmental Protection Agency requires HVAC manufacturers to transition away from high global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants like R410A and the already-banned R22.
In their place, new residential systems must use lower-GWP refrigerants like R454B or R32. This mandate is part of a national effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
What Kind of Refrigerant Will New HVAC Systems Need?
There are four main refrigerants homeowners should be aware of: two older types being phased out, and two newer ones that will become the standard. It’s important to know that you cannot mix old refrigerants with new ones; you cannot add new type of refrigerant to your equipment if it uses an older type.
- R22: Commonly known as Freon, this older refrigerant began being phased out in 2010.
- R410A: A blend of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) that replaced Freon in newer systems.
- Instead of R22 or R410A, new residential HVAC systems will use:
- R454B: A next-generation A2L refrigerant designed to replace R410A. It has a significantly lower GWP and no ozone-depleting effects.
- R32: Or “difluoromethane.” Also an A2L refrigerant, R32 has been used globally for decades.
How Does This Mandate Affect Homeowners?
Here’s the good news: If your current HVAC system uses R22 or R410A, you don’t need to replace it immediately. But as refrigerants like Freon and R410A become scarcer and harder to source, repairs may get more expensive.
Regular heating and cooling tune-ups can help extend your system’s lifespan, but if your system has a leak or needs a coolant recharge, upgrading to a newer system that uses an approved refrigerant may be the best option.
Can My Older HVAC System Be Retrofitted?
In some cases, older HVAC systems can be retrofitted to use newer refrigerants, but this process can be costly and technically complex. It also requires HVAC technicians to be specially trained to handle the latest refrigerant standards.
That said, retrofitting may extend the life of your current system and delay the cost of a full replacement — making it a practical short-term solution for some homeowners.
Benefits of Replacing Your HVAC System in 2025
If your AC relies on outdated refrigerant, 2025 is a smart time to consider a full HVAC replacement. New units are not only more efficient, they’re built to meet the latest EPA standards.
Here’s what else you’ll gain from making the switch now:
- Reduced carbon footprint
- Greater ease sourcing compliant refrigerant
- Potential tax credits/HVAC rebates
- Future-proofed HVAC
- Lower energy bills
- Increased home value
Depend on Iceberg to Upgrade Your HVAC System
As refrigerant regulations shift and older systems become more expensive to maintain, upgrading your HVAC unit in 2025 is a great way to stay on top of home comfort and long-term savings.
Our licensed and insured technicians service all types of HVAC systems and are well-equipped to help you select a new heating or cooling unit for your Southeast Michigan home. With upfront pricing and convenient financing options, we make it easy to upgrade your home comfort systems without breaking the bank.
Comfort Guaranteed. Schedule a free estimate for an HVAC upgrade in Southeast Michigan today.
