2025 Refrigerant Changes: Indiana Homeowners’ Guide

Many HVAC systems use refrigerant to regulate home temperatures. There are many types of refrigerant, although most people have heard of R-22 and R-410A.

R-22 hasn’t been manufactured since 2020 due to its negative impacts on the environment and contributions to climate change. As of 2025, refrigerant requirements are changing again for homeowners in Indiana and across the U.S.

R-454B will be the new primary refrigerant, as it’s the most environmentally friendly option. Here, we take an in-depth look at what the R-410A phase-out means for Indiana homeowners.

R-454B vs. Other Refrigerants

R-22

R-22, commonly known as Freon, was used as the primary refrigerant for air conditioning systems for decades.

Freon emits hydrofluorocarbon gases, which impact global warming and contribute to the ozone layer’s depletion; that’s why its phase-out started in 2010, and it has no longer been used in HVAC production as part of the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020.

R-410A

R-410A, also known as Puron, is a more environmentally friendly option that has been used as a replacement for R-22.

However, due to its highly pressurized operation and risk for harmful refrigerant leaks during maintenance and repair services, it will also no longer be manufactured or imported after Jan. 1, 2025.

R-454B

R-454B is the newest form of refrigerant that has been gradually replacing the other two refrigerants, but it will be the primary refrigerant moving forward. R-454B has a lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) by more than 75% compared to R-22 and R-410A and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, which means it has a significantly smaller environmental impact.

However, R-454B is considered an A2L refrigerant, meaning it’s slightly flammable, and R-410A is an A1 refrigerant, meaning it’s non-flammable.

Which HVAC Systems Use Refrigerant?

Refrigerant is a necessary component of air conditioners, ductless mini-splits, and heat pumps. It transfers heat outside to cool your home in the summer and pulls heat inside to warm your home in the winter.

The 2026 refrigerant regulation means all HVAC units manufactured in 2025 and beyond are required to use the new R-454B refrigerant. Equipment manufactured before the January 1, 2025 cutoff could be installed through January 1, 2026, though that pre-transition inventory is now largely depleted. Any new system you purchase today will use R-454B.

A2L refrigerants like R-454B also required a full redesign of HVAC equipment to meet updated toxicity and flammability safety standards, which is one reason new systems carry a higher upfront cost than their R-410A predecessors.

Why Is HVAC Equipment More Expensive?

SEER2 and HSPF2 efficiency standards push new HVAC systems to perform better and consume less energy, which is a long-term win for Indiana homeowners. However, meeting those standards requires more sophisticated engineering, which drives up manufacturing, distribution, and purchase costs.

On top of that, raw material prices, ongoing supply chain pressures, strong consumer demand, and labor shortages have all added to the cost of new equipment. The refrigerant transition itself compounds this further, since R-454B systems require redesigned components and contractors need specialized tools to install and service them safely.

The result is a higher upfront investment, but one that typically pays back over time through lower monthly energy bills and fewer repair costs on aging equipment.

Benefits of Installing an R-454B System

The new refrigerant requirements are designed to combat climate change, leading to more eco-friendly and sustainable practices and a reduced carbon footprint for Indiana homeowners.

The improved energy efficiency of R-454B will also increase your system’s performance and reduce your monthly energy bills. If you get a head start on upgrading your unit, you won’t have to worry about limited refrigerant for your old system.

Repair & Maintenance for R-22 & R-410A Systems

R-454B isn’t a drop-in replacement because it’s a different class of refrigerant. You can only recharge your R-22 or R-410A system with those refrigerants.

As a result, refrigerant changes may also hinder repair and maintenance for older units that rely on R-22 or R-410A, as the necessary resources will be limited and more expensive to access.

Tips for Maintaining Your Current HVAC System

If your system isn’t nearing the end of its lifespan, maintaining your unit will help prevent the need for repairs and replacement, ensuring you get the most out of your unit.

Some DIY tips include:

• Regularly replace air filters
• Clear out vents and registers
• Check for refrigerant leaks
• Listen for unusual noises
• Schedule routine HVAC maintenance

Finance Your HVAC Replacement

HVAC systems are a necessary investment, but they can be costly. Northern Comfort Systems offers financing options for HVAC replacements to help ease the stress of your heating and cooling costs.

Choose Northern Comfort Systems for Expert HVAC Services in Indiana

Northern Comfort Systems has delivered exceptional HVAC services in Indiana since 2001. We aim to provide affordable service performed by highly trained, trustworthy technicians.

We offer free estimates on replacements and never charge you hidden service fees. As a Rheem Team Top Contractor, we’re confident that we have a solution for you.

Call today to schedule an HVAC replacement in Indianapolis, Terre Haute, Anderson, or Muncie today.