TLDR

• Starting January 1, 2026, the EPA lowers the refrigerant threshold from 50 to 15 pounds for HFC systems with high global warming potential, expanding federal oversight significantly.
• This change means many smaller HVAC and refrigeration systems, previously exempt, now require regular leak inspections, reporting, and record-keeping.
• HVAC professionals must comply with new maintenance, leak detection, and reporting rules to avoid penalties and ensure environmental compliance.

Starting January 1, 2026, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is lowering the amount of refrigerant in HVAC systems that triggers federal rules from 50 pounds to just 15 pounds. This change applies to systems using certain types of refrigerants called HFCs that have a high impact on global warming. Because of this, many more HVAC units—like rooftop air conditioners, small commercial coolers, and light commercial ACs—will need to follow new inspection and reporting rules. HVAC professionals and building managers must be ready to handle these new federal requirements starting next year.

Preparing for the New EPA Refrigerant Rules

If you work with HVAC systems, it’s time to get ready for the new EPA refrigerant rules starting January 1, 2026. First, figure out which systems you service have 15 pounds or more of HFC refrigerants with high global warming potential (GWP). These smaller systems now need tracking and regular leak inspections. Start setting up a clear process to document all inspections and repairs — this will make future reports easier. Be sure you understand how to spot “chronic leaks,” which happen when a system loses a lot of refrigerant in a year. You’ll need to report these to the EPA by March 1 each year. Also, get familiar with new record-keeping rules: keep maintenance logs for at least three years. If you handle big systems with 1,500 pounds or more, check if automatic leak detection (ALD) devices are required. Lastly, talk to your clients about these changes so they can prepare, too. Starting these steps now will keep you ahead and avoid last-minute surprises.

Market Impact: Inventory, Pricing, and Supply Chain

Lowering the refrigerant threshold to 15 pounds means many more HVAC systems now need special handling and reporting. For distributors and contractors, this change can cause shifts in demand for refrigerants and parts. With more systems under regulation, suppliers may see higher demand for smaller quantities of refrigerant and for equipment that helps detect leaks or track maintenance.

This can tighten supply chains, leading to occasional shortages or delays. Prices for high-GWP refrigerants may rise as manufacturers adjust to new rules and produce less of these chemicals globally. At the same time, companies might increase production of alternative, lower-GWP refrigerants, which can affect availability and pricing.

Manufacturers may also change their product designs to meet compliance more easily. This can mean new equipment features or different refrigerant options. For contractors, it’s important to stay flexible and plan inventory carefully. Stocking key refrigerants and parts ahead can reduce risks of unexpected costs or delays. Overall, the market is shifting to support stricter environmental rules, and savvy businesses will adapt quickly to these changes.

What HVAC Technicians Need to Do Differently

Starting January 1, 2026, HVAC technicians will see big changes on the job. Systems with 15 pounds or more of certain high-impact refrigerants, like HFCs with high Global Warming Potential (GWP), now require more detailed work. Technicians must perform regular leak inspections and keep clear records of each check. If a system leaks 125% or more of its full refrigerant charge in one year, technicians need to report it to the EPA by March 1 of the next year.

Technicians should also be ready to install automatic leak detection devices on very large systems with 1,500 pounds or more of refrigerant. These devices help catch leaks early. All inspection and repair records must be kept for at least three years.

This means HVAC pros must be careful with paperwork and thorough during inspections. They may also need new tools for leak detection and training on how to meet these rules. These steps keep systems running cleaner and help protect the environment, while keeping technicians compliant with federal regulations.

EPA’s New 15-Pound Refrigerant Threshold Rule

Starting January 1, 2026, the EPA requires stricter rules for systems using certain refrigerants. These systems contain hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) gases with a high Global Warming Potential (GWP) above 53. Before, only systems holding 50 pounds or more of these refrigerants were regulated. Now, the threshold is lowered to 15 pounds. This means many smaller systems must follow new federal rules. HVAC professionals must perform regular leak inspections and keep records for at least three years. If a system leaks 125% or more of its refrigerant charge in a year, it must be reported to the EPA by March 1 of the next year. Systems with 1,500 pounds or more of refrigerant need automatic leak detection devices installed. These rules cover equipment like rooftop HVAC units, small commercial refrigerators, and light commercial air conditioners. The regulation applies only to service and maintenance, not manufacturing or installation. Meeting these rules is required from 2026 onward to avoid penalties.

Key Takeaways

• Starting January 1, 2026, the EPA lowers the refrigerant reporting threshold from 50 to 15 pounds for HFC systems with high GWP, greatly increasing regulatory coverage.
• HVAC systems previously exempt, like rooftop units and small commercial refrigeration, now fall under federal compliance requirements.
• Professionals must conduct regular leak inspections, report chronic leaks, and keep maintenance records for at least three years.
• Facilities with 1,500 pounds or more of refrigerant must install automatic leak detection systems to meet new EPA rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the new 15-pound refrigerant threshold take effect?

The EPA's new rule lowering the refrigerant threshold from 50 pounds to 15 pounds is already in effect as of today, and fully applies starting January 1, 2026.

What types of HVAC systems are now subject to EPA regulations under this new threshold?

The rule now covers smaller systems like rooftop HVAC units, small commercial refrigeration, process cooling, and light commercial air conditioning that use HFC refrigerants with high global warming potential.

What are my new compliance responsibilities for systems containing refrigerants above 15 pounds?

You must conduct regular leak inspections with documented proof, report any system leaking 125%+ of its charge in a year, keep records for three years, and install automatic leak detectors on very large systems.

How should I prepare for handling A2L refrigerants under these new rules?

Since A2L refrigerants are mildly flammable with low global warming potential, make sure you’re trained on safe handling, follow EPA guidelines carefully, and track all refrigerant charge amounts closely to stay compliant.

Related Topics: 2026 refrigerant deadline, HVAC compliance, EPA refrigerant rules, A2L refrigerants, HVAC contractors, refrigerant mandate, HVAC industry update, refrigerant transition, HVAC regulations, refrigerant safety standards, HVAC equipment compliance