TLDR

• UL Solutions expanded its HVACR test center in Plano, Texas, to speed up certification of equipment using newer, low-global-warming refrigerants like R32 and R454B.
• The facility tests heat pumps, air conditioners, and commercial systems under varied climate conditions and checks compliance with AHRI, ASHRAE, DOE, and ENERGY STAR standards.
• Homeowners, contractors, and property managers should verify refrigerant types, efficiency ratings, and certifications to ensure safe, compliant, and energy-efficient HVAC system choices.

On October 12, 2026, UL Solutions opened an expanded HVACR testing center in Plano, Texas. The upgraded facility can test heat pumps, air conditioners, chillers, variable refrigerant flow systems, and coolant units for data centers. Its climate chambers recreate conditions from cold winters to hot deserts and handle equipment up to 30 tons of cooling capacity. This expansion boosts testing for newer, low-global-warming refrigerants like R32 and R454B, supporting safety, leak prevention, performance, and certification for a range of heating and cooling products.

How the lab supports compliance and certification

The expanded UL Solutions lab in Plano ensures HVAC equipment meets key standards. It tests against AHRI, ASHRAE, DOE, and ENERGY STAR requirements. AHRI sets performance ratings, ASHRAE covers safety and design standards, DOE enforces federal efficiency rules, and ENERGY STAR is a voluntary label for energy-efficient products. The lab supports testing of low-global-warming-potential (low-GWP) refrigerants like R32 and R454B. It checks safety, leak prevention methods, performance, and certification for these newer refrigerants. By speeding up the validation process, the lab helps bring compliant and efficient HVAC models to market faster. This means you get quicker access to equipment that meets the latest refrigerant and efficiency rules.

What it means for buyers, pros, and portfolios

Homeowners can expect more HVAC models using newer refrigerants like R32 and R454B. Before you buy, check the spec sheet for SEER2, the new efficiency rating, and the type of refrigerant used. Contractors should prepare for these refrigerant changes by planning training and updating tools. Systems with R32 or R454B need compatible components and must be installed following manufacturer instructions and local codes. Property managers benefit from comparing test data that covers hot, mild, and cold climates. When evaluating bids, ask for third-party certifications and details about the refrigerant. This helps ensure you select systems that perform reliably across different temperatures and meet current standards.

Inside the Plano capabilities

The Plano facility uses climate chambers that recreate a wide range of temperatures. These chambers can also simulate part-load conditions, meaning the equipment runs below full power to reflect real-life use. This gives more accurate performance data. The center can test systems with cooling capacities up to 30 tons. One ton equals 12,000 BTUs per hour, so this covers large homes and light commercial buildings, including variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems. Along with performance, the lab evaluates safety features and checks how well equipment prevents or limits refrigerant leaks. This ensures products meet certification standards while handling newer, low-global-warming-potential refrigerants safely.

Actions to navigate the refrigerant transition

Homeowners should always check product labels for the refrigerant type, SEER2 rating, and AHRI or ENERGY STAR certification numbers. SEER2 is the updated efficiency rating that helps you understand energy use. If you’re unsure about the right size or type of system, using a sizing tool can make the choice easier. Contractors need to update their standard operating procedures and inventory to handle newer refrigerants like R32 and R454B safely. Training your team on these refrigerants is essential, and make sure all tools and equipment are approved for the specific refrigerant in use. Property managers should require refrigerant details, compliance proof, and service plans in their request-for-proposals (RFPs). Using third-party test data helps compare bids fairly and ensures systems meet all regulations. These steps will help everyone adapt smoothly to new refrigerant rules and maintain safe, efficient HVAC systems.

Key Takeaways

• UL Solutions opened an expanded HVACR testing center in Plano, Texas, with chambers that simulate a wide range of climates and can test systems up to 30 tons in cooling capacity. This helps speed up certification for heat pumps, air conditioners, chillers, and other HVAC equipment using newer refrigerants. The center supports testing of low-global-warming-potential (low-GWP) refrigerants like R32 and R454B, focusing on safety, leak prevention, performance, and compliance with AHRI, ASHRAE, DOE, and ENERGY STAR standards. Homeowners, contractors, and property managers should verify refrigerant types, efficiency ratings like SEER2, and certified performance when selecting or installing HVAC equipment to ensure compliance and optimal operation during the refrigerant transition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What new refrigerants does the expanded UL Solutions HVACR center test?

The expanded center tests low-global-warming-potential refrigerants like R32 and R454B. These newer refrigerants help reduce environmental impact compared to older types.

How does the Plano facility support HVAC equipment certification?

It tests products against standards from AHRI, ASHRAE, DOE, and ENERGY STAR. This ensures systems meet performance, safety, efficiency, and environmental rules before they reach the market.

Why should homeowners check refrigerant type and SEER2 ratings before buying?

Because newer refrigerants like R32 and R454B require compatible systems and impact efficiency. SEER2 is the updated efficiency rating that helps you choose energy-saving equipment.

What does the expanded test center mean for contractors and property managers?

Contractors need updated training and tools for handling new refrigerants safely. Property managers can use third-party test data from the center to compare system performance in different climates and ensure compliance.

Related Topics: UL HVAC testing, low-GWP refrigerants, R32 refrigerant, R454B refrigerant, HVAC certification, energy-efficient HVAC, HVAC compliance, HVACR lab expansion, home comfort, HVAC parts, air conditioning systems, heating systems