TLDR

• LG and SK Enmove are developing new refrigerants with very low global warming potential (GWP below 150) and no PFAS chemicals, aimed at HVAC systems and AI data-center cooling.
• New regulations in the US and Europe are pushing the market away from older refrigerants like R-410A toward safer, lower-GWP options that require updated training and equipment.
• Contractors, property managers, and homeowners should prepare by learning about A2L refrigerants, updating tools and safety plans, and planning equipment upgrades over the next 6 to 18 months.

LG and SK Enmove have teamed up to develop new refrigerants with a global warming potential (GWP) below 150 and no PFAS chemicals. These ultra-low-GWP blends are designed for residential, commercial, industrial, and AI data-center cooling. This move aligns with tightening regulations from the U.S. EPA and global agencies aiming to phase out higher-GWP refrigerants like R-410A. The partnership signals a shift toward safer, more climate-friendly cooling solutions that will affect equipment choices, safety training, and product availability across HVAC markets.

Rulebook: how limits change what you can install

The U.S. AIM Act drives a phasedown of HFC refrigerants, pushing the market toward lower-GWP options. New rules target specific sectors, while the European Union and some U.S. states add their own restrictions. This means old refrigerants like R-410A are being replaced. For residential and light commercial use, the shift is to mildly flammable refrigerants called A2L types. Common examples include R-32, with a GWP of 675, and R-454B, with a GWP of 466. "GWP" stands for global warming potential, a measure of climate impact. Because A2L refrigerants are mildly flammable, safety standards such as UL 60335-2-40 and building codes require extra steps. These include better leak detection, improved ventilation, and careful handling to reduce fire risks. Understanding these rules is key for anyone installing or servicing HVAC systems today.

Impact by audience: what to plan and buy

Homeowners should ask for low-GWP, A2L-ready systems when shopping. A2L refrigerants are mildly flammable but much better for the climate. Check if your system qualifies for SEER2 rebates, which reward energy efficiency. Also, plan for service support since new refrigerants need specialized care throughout the unit's life. Contractors must book A2L training to handle these refrigerants safely. Update your tools—gauges, recovery machines, and leak detectors—to ones rated for A2L refrigerants. Stock parts compatible with popular low-GWP options like R-32 and R-454B. For property managers, auditing your HVAC fleets and timelines is key. Standardize on models that meet new refrigerant rules to avoid surprises. Lock in installation windows before peak seasons to ensure smooth upgrades. Each group will need to adapt to these changes to stay compliant, safe, and ready for the future.

Under the hood: A2L safety and immersion cooling

A2L refrigerants are mildly flammable gases that reduce climate impact compared to R-410A, the common HVAC refrigerant. Because they can catch fire, A2L systems need careful leak prevention and awareness to avoid ignition risks. Immersion cooling is a method where servers are submerged in a special non-conductive liquid. This liquid moves heat away faster than air, making it ideal for high-demand AI data centers. The new refrigerant blends targeting a global warming potential (GWP) below 150 and free of PFAS chemicals aim to meet strict climate goals while keeping performance high. However, these blends require attention to material and lubricant compatibility to ensure equipment runs safely and efficiently over time.

Do this next: sizing, training, stocking

Start by sizing your systems using HVAC365’s easy online tool. Focus on heat pumps and mini-splits that are A2L-ready—these use mildly flammable refrigerants with lower climate impact. Next, create a checklist for A2L compliance. This should include permits, the right tools, ventilation plans, and rules for safe storage and transport. Don’t forget to schedule certification training for yourself or your team. Over the next 6 to 18 months, gradually reduce your purchases of R-410A equipment. Instead, plan for parts that support retrofits and invest in leak detection tools designed for A2L refrigerants. Finally, keep your customers and stakeholders informed about these changes. Clear communication helps everyone prepare for safer, more efficient cooling systems that meet evolving regulations.

Key Takeaways

• LG and SK Enmove are developing refrigerants with a global warming potential (GWP) below 150 and no PFAS chemicals. These new refrigerants target HVAC systems and immersion cooling for AI data centers to meet stricter global and US EPA regulations. The shift away from R-410A is accelerating, with safer, mildly flammable A2L refrigerants like R-32 and R-454B becoming the new standard for residential and commercial use. Contractors, property managers, and homeowners should prepare by updating training, tools, and equipment stocking to handle A2L safety requirements and ensure compliance with upcoming refrigerant rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are low-GWP refrigerants and why do they matter?

Low-GWP refrigerants have a low Global Warming Potential, meaning they impact the climate less than traditional refrigerants like R-410A. Using them helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and meets tightening regulations in the US and Europe.

What does PFAS-free mean in refrigerants?

PFAS-free means the refrigerants do not contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, which are harmful chemicals linked to environmental and health risks. Choosing PFAS-free options supports safer, more sustainable HVAC systems.

What is A2L safety and how does it affect HVAC equipment?

A2L refers to refrigerants that are mildly flammable but with lower climate impact. HVAC equipment using A2L refrigerants requires special safety measures like leak detection and ventilation to prevent ignition and ensure safe operation.

How will new refrigerant rules impact homeowners and contractors?

New rules push the market away from R-410A towards lower-GWP refrigerants like R-32 and R-454B. Homeowners should look for compliant systems with energy rebates, while contractors need A2L training and updated tools to install and service these newer refrigerants safely.

Related Topics: PFAS-free refrigerants, low-GWP refrigerants, HVAC refrigerants, LG refrigerants, SK Enmove, eco-friendly HVAC, HVAC safety, A2L refrigerants, immersion cooling, HVAC equipment regulations, energy efficient cooling, HVAC training