TLDR

• New EPA rules require residential and light-commercial AC and heat pumps to use refrigerants with a global warming potential (GWP) under 700, replacing older high-GWP options like R-410A with safer, low-GWP alternatives such as R-454B and R-32.
• These new refrigerants are mildly flammable (classified as A2L), so contractors need special training, equipment, and safety procedures to handle them properly.
• Homeowners, contractors, and property managers must plan for these changes by choosing compliant equipment, ensuring professional installation, and updating maintenance and service practices accordingly.

Starting in 2026, new U.S. rules limit residential and light-commercial air conditioners and heat pumps to refrigerants with a global warming potential (GWP) under 700. This means the common R-410A refrigerant, with a GWP of about 2,088, can no longer be used in new equipment. Instead, manufacturers are launching systems using lower-GWP options like R-454B and R-32. These changes affect homeowners, contractors, and property managers because replacement systems must match the new refrigerants, which often require special installation and safety measures due to mild flammability.

Rules and safety: what compliance requires

Homeowners cannot simply swap out an old R-410A system for a new one using the same refrigerant. New equipment must use matched components designed for low-GWP refrigerants like R-454B or R-32. Professional installation is essential to ensure safety and performance. Contractors need to be aware that R-454B and R-32 are classified as A2L refrigerants, which means they are mildly flammable. This requires holding a Section 608 certification, completing A2L-specific training, using tools rated for these refrigerants, and following strict leak detection and labeling procedures. Property managers should take a proactive approach by mapping their properties based on refrigerant types, creating approved equipment lists that comply with A2L safety standards, and keeping thorough documentation of local codes and rebate programs. Regular training and coordination with service vendors are critical to maintaining compliance and safety across all sites.

Market moves: supply, SKUs, and install timing

Most manufacturers are now launching new product lines using R-454B and R-32 refrigerants. These are the main low-GWP replacements for legacy refrigerants. You will also see R-290 and R-455A models, but only in specific applications approved for those refrigerants. Existing systems using R-410A can still be serviced, but most future replacements will use A2L refrigerants, which are mildly flammable. This means contractors and property managers need to plan for mixed equipment fleets and maintain parts inventories that cover both older and newer refrigerants. When choosing a new system, don’t focus on GWP alone. Compare energy efficiency ratings like SEER2 for cooling and HSPF2 for heating, plus capacity, control features, warranty terms, and available service support. These factors all affect long-term comfort and costs.

A2L realities: design, performance, and tools

A2L refrigerants are mildly flammable, so safety is key. Follow manufacturer rules on charge limits, ventilation, and use approved electrical parts and sensors to keep systems safe. Efficiency varies depending on the refrigerant and system design. Check SEER2 ratings for cooling efficiency and HSPF2 ratings for heating efficiency on AHRI-matched systems to compare performance. When working with A2L systems, verify that line sets and other components are compatible. Reusing old parts may require thorough cleaning or full replacement to avoid issues. Always rely on a licensed installer who understands A2L safety and handling. This ensures your system runs well and meets all safety standards.

What to do now: clear steps by role

Homeowners should start by using our Sizing Tool to find the right system size. Pick a refrigerant that meets the EPA's low-GWP rules. Confirm your installer is trained and ready to work with A2L refrigerants, which are mildly flammable and need special handling. Check for state rebates to save on costs, and order early to avoid delays.



Contractors need to complete A2L safety training and update their standard operating procedures. Make sure you have recovery machines, gauges, and leak detectors rated for A2L refrigerants. Calibrate your tools regularly and prepare answers for common customer questions about these new refrigerants and equipment. Joining our Contractor Portal helps keep you updated.



Property managers should set a clear refrigerant policy across all properties. Update equipment specifications to include approved A2L refrigerants. Budget for phased upgrades to replace older systems over time. Work closely with your vendors and service teams to ensure everyone follows A2L safety steps and responds promptly when issues arise. Booking a Strategy Call can help streamline this process.

Key Takeaways

• The EPA now limits new residential and light-commercial AC and heat pump refrigerants to those with a global warming potential (GWP) below 700, phasing out R-410A which has a GWP of about 2,088. Replacement refrigerants like R-454B and R-32 are leading the market but are not drop-in substitutes and require matched equipment and professional installation.
• R-454B and R-32 refrigerants are classified as A2L, meaning they are mildly flammable. Contractors must have updated Section 608 certification, use rated tools, follow strict safety protocols, and employ proper leak detection to handle these refrigerants safely.
• Property managers need to plan for the shift to low-GWP refrigerants by mapping existing systems, updating equipment lists, training staff on A2L safety, and budgeting for phased upgrades to ensure compliance and smooth service across multiple sites.
• Choosing a new HVAC system involves more than just picking a low-GWP refrigerant. Buyers should compare energy efficiency ratings like SEER2 and HSPF2, system capacity, controls, warranties, and regional compliance requirements to select the best fit for their needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the EPA’s 700 GWP cap mean for new air-conditioning and heat pump systems?

The EPA limits refrigerants in new residential and light-commercial systems to those with a global warming potential (GWP) below 700. This means older refrigerants like R-410A, with a GWP around 2,088, are no longer allowed in new units. New systems use lower-GWP options like R-454B and R-32 to reduce environmental impact.

Can I replace my existing R-410A system with a low-GWP refrigerant without changing equipment?

No, low-GWP refrigerants like R-454B and R-32 are not drop-in replacements for R-410A. You need a new system designed for these refrigerants, properly matched and professionally installed. This ensures safety, efficiency, and compliance with EPA rules.

What special safety precautions do contractors need with low-GWP A2L refrigerants?

R-454B and R-32 are classified as A2L refrigerants, meaning they are mildly flammable. Technicians must have updated Section 608 certification, use rated tools, follow new safety procedures, and employ leak detection methods to handle these refrigerants safely.

How does the refrigerant change affect property managers managing multiple buildings?

Property managers must update their equipment policies to include approved A2L refrigerants, track which refrigerants are in use at each site, plan for technician training, and budget for phased upgrades. This helps ensure compliance, smooth service, and cost management across their properties.

Related Topics: low-GWP refrigerants, HVAC refrigerants, EPA refrigerant rules, air conditioning, heat pumps, HVAC compliance, energy efficiency, A2L refrigerants, HVAC installation, home comfort, HVAC products, HVAC maintenance