Refrigerant is a chemical substance in your HVAC system that absorbs heat and helps keep your home cool and comfortable.
If you’ve heard about the 2025 refrigerant mandate – or remember the phaseout of R-22 – you’re already one step ahead in understanding this major industry shift. Starting in 2025, high-impact refrigerants like R-22 and R-410A will no longer be produced or supported. So, what does this mean for Texas homeowners? Many existing HVAC systems may need updates, retrofits, or full replacements to work with newer, more environmentally friendly refrigerants, including R-32 and R-454B.
Here, we’ll break down these refrigerant changes, explain what the 2025 mandate means for your home, and help you decide whether now is the right time to upgrade or replace your AC.
What Is the 2025 Refrigerant Mandate?
Starting January 1, 2025, the EPA requires HVAC manufacturers to stop using high global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants like R-410A. GWP measures how much heat a greenhouse gas traps in the atmosphere over time. R-22, a common older refrigerant, was fully phased out in 2020 due to GWP concerns, although its phaseout first began in 2010.
Now, new residential systems must be compatible with lower-GWP alternative refrigerants like R-32 or R-454B. This mandate is part of a broader push to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and make home cooling more efficient, eco-friendly, and future-proofed.
Why Is R-22 Refrigerant or Freon Being Phased Out?
R-22 is a specific hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) refrigerant, commonly sold under the brand name Freon. While it was once widely used in residential air conditioning, that’s no longer the case. R-22 contributes to ozone layer depletion, has a high global warming potential, and presents long-term sustainability issues.
While the transition may seem inconvenient in the short term, the 2025 mandate is a necessary step toward safer and more responsible home cooling.
How the Mandate Affects HVAC Systems in 2025 and Beyond
Here’s what you need to know: If your current HVAC system relies on R-22 or R-410A, you can continue using it, but replacement refrigerants like R-454B may not be compatible. Air conditioners or heat pumps that still use R-22 face rising repair costs, too, since Freon supply is steadily dwindling. Retrofits, like R-22 conversions, are also limited, often making it cost-ineffective or complicated to swap in parts that accept new refrigerant.
While a full upgrade isn’t always required, investing in new, compliant HVAC will help you avoid rising service costs.
What San Marcos Homeowners Should Do Now to Prepare
Now’s the time for Hays County homeowners to schedule an HVAC tune-up.
Being proactive can reveal whether your AC or heat pump needs refrigerant, or if it’s compatible with newer options like R-454B. An HVAC specialist can also help you decide whether upgrading or fully replacing your system is the best move, especially as older refrigerant becomes harder or more expensive to find.
HVAC Maintenance Tips to Extend System Life
If you’re not ready to replace your current HVAC, regular maintenance is key to keep it running smoothly. Here are a few simple ways to extend the life of your HVAC unit:
- Change filters regularly: Remember to replace air filters every 1-3 months to improve airflow and reduce strain on your system.
- Check refrigerant levels: Low refrigerant can cause your system to work harder, leading to wear and higher energy bills.
- Inspect ductwork: Sealing leaks or cracks in your ducts helps improve efficiency and ensures even cooling.
- Schedule annual tune-ups: A professional inspection once a year can catch small issues early and prevent premature breakdowns.
Choose SM Air for HVAC Maintenance & Tune-Ups in San Marcos, TX
While the Freon mandate may bring changes to your home’s HVAC system, SM Air is here to make the transition smooth and stress-free. Since 1986, we’ve proudly served San Marcos with expert HVAC service upgrades, honest advice, and a commitment to 100% customer satisfaction. Whether you need a quick tune-up, a refrigerant check, or a full AC upgrade, our dedicated team is ready to help.
Stay ahead of the Freon mandate. Contact SM Air today to schedule an HVAC tune-up for your San Marcos, TX, home!