TRDL

• New EPA rules are phasing out R-410A refrigerants by 2026, requiring HVAC systems to switch to low-GWP A2L refrigerants, impacting manufacturing, installation, and retrofits.
• HVAC professionals must update training and certification to safely handle flammable A2L refrigerants and prepare for a surge in retrofitting existing systems.
• Manufacturers and facility managers are adjusting to stricter efficiency standards and local regulations, driving demand for new products and upgrades, especially in commercial and data center cooling.

Starting January 1, 2026, new rules will ban the use of the common R-410A refrigerant in all new air conditioners and heat pumps. This is because R-410A has a high global warming potential, so it will be replaced by safer, low-impact refrigerants called A2L types. HVAC contractors, manufacturers, and building owners will all feel the change. Contractors need new training to handle these refrigerants safely. Manufacturers must update their equipment, and building managers will need to plan equipment upgrades. The phase-out begins January 1, 2025, when making or importing R-410A systems stops, making this a big shift for the HVAC industry.

Preparing for the 2026 HVAC Changes: What You Can Do Now

Starting January 2026, new HVAC systems must use low-global warming refrigerants called A2L types (like R-454B or R-32) instead of R-410A. This means contractors and distributors need to act soon. First, get A2L safety training to learn how to handle the mildly flammable refrigerants safely. This includes new tools, leak detectors, and updated EPA certifications. Next, check your inventory and sales plans: R-410A units can’t be made after January 2025 and won’t be allowed for new installs after 2026, so it’s time to phase them out. Contractors should start offering retrofit services to replace old R-410A systems and promote new energy-efficient models like LG’s gas furnaces and heat pump rooftop units. Facility managers should plan equipment upgrades now to meet rising efficiency standards and avoid future penalties. Overall, focus on training, inventory review, and early retrofit and replacement offers to stay ahead of the changes.

Market Impact on Inventory, Pricing, and Manufacturers

The shift away from R-410A refrigerants is shaking up the HVAC market. Distributors face a tough spot as leftover R-410A products could lose value quickly. This creates a risk of inventory write-offs—meaning money lost on unsellable stock. At the same time, units using newer, low-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants like R-454B and R-32 are costing 20% or more than older models. These price increases come from higher manufacturing costs and supply chain adjustments.

Manufacturers are responding by updating their product lines to meet stricter efficiency rules and new refrigerant standards. They’re investing in research, development, and retraining to handle flammable A2L refrigerants safely. For contractors and distributors, this means adapting quickly to tighter supply and higher prices.

Overall, the market is tightening. Those who plan ahead—managing inventory carefully and keeping up with new products—will navigate this transition more smoothly and avoid costly delays or shortages.

What HVAC Techs Need to Know About New Tools and Training

Starting in 2026, HVAC technicians must get ready for big changes on the job. The old refrigerant, called R-410A, is being phased out because it harms the environment. New systems will use refrigerants called A2L, like R-454B or R-32. These are mildly flammable, so they need special care. Techs must get updated training to handle these safely. This means learning new safety rules and earning refreshed EPA 608 certifications, which are licenses for working with refrigerants.

Technicians will also use new tools, such as advanced leak detectors designed to spot A2L gases, which behave differently than older refrigerants. Working with A2L refrigerants means more careful handling to avoid leaks and accidents. Plus, techs should practice new repair and installation methods for equipment like LG’s Multi-Position Gas Furnaces and heat pump rooftop units.

Following these updates helps avoid project delays, fines, or costly rework. In short, HVAC techs need to focus on safety training, new certification steps, and updated tools to smoothly switch to the greener, but more complex, refrigerants.

Rules, Deadlines, and Compliance Details for HVAC Professionals

Starting January 1, 2025, manufacturers and importers must stop making and bringing in new HVAC systems that use R-410A refrigerant. However, installations of existing R-410A equipment can continue until January 1, 2026. For certain Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems made before 2026, installation deadlines extend to 2027. Additionally, projects permitted before October 5, 2023, have a grace period allowing installation until 2028. After these dates, HVAC equipment must use low global warming potential (GWP) A2L refrigerants, which are mildly flammable gases like R-454B or R-32. Although the EPA currently deprioritizes penalties for not meeting these deadlines, the rules remain in effect. This means state and local building codes and permits will still enforce the phase-down. HVAC professionals need special training to handle A2L refrigerants safely because their mild flammability requires updated tools, leak detectors, and changes to EPA Section 608 certification. Non-compliance risks fines, project delays, or having to redo work. These rules are part of the EPA’s Technology Transition under the AIM Act, focusing on reducing climate impact by moving away from R-410A starting in 2025 and fully by 2026.

Key Takeaways

• The EPA's R-410A phase-down starts January 1, 2026, requiring all new HVAC systems to use low-GWP A2L refrigerants like R-454B or R-32.
• Manufacturing and importing R-410A systems will be banned from January 1, 2025; installations allowed only until 2026 (extended for some VRF systems).
• HVAC professionals must get trained on A2L refrigerants for safe handling and certification to avoid fines and project delays.
• A large retrofit market will emerge as existing R-410A systems need replacing, boosting demand for new efficient units like LG’s Multi-Position Gas Furnaces and heat pump RTUs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the deadline for manufacturing and installing R-410A HVAC systems?

Manufacturing or importing R-410A systems is banned starting January 1, 2025. Installations using existing R-410A equipment are allowed only until January 1, 2026, with some extensions for specific systems until 2027 or 2028.

What are A2L refrigerants, and why do HVAC technicians need special training for them?

A2L refrigerants, like R-454B and R-32, have lower environmental impact but are mildly flammable. Technicians must get special training to handle them safely using new tools, leak detectors, and updated EPA certifications.

How does the R-410A phase-down impact HVAC inventory and costs?

Distributors may face losses because R-410A stock could become unusable, and compliant units with A2L refrigerants typically cost over 20% more. Planning inventory carefully is key to avoid these issues.

Why is there an expected increase in HVAC retrofits starting 2026?

Because new systems must use low-GWP A2L refrigerants, many existing R-410A units will need retrofitting or replacement to meet regulations and efficiency standards, creating strong demand for retrofit skills and equipment upgrades.

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