
New year, new refrigerant mandates every California resident should know about. California’s 2025 refrigerant mandate marks a significant shift in HVAC regulations that residential and commercial systems must now adhere to. Following similar international climate initiatives, this state-level regulation aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by mandating lower-GWP alternatives like R-32 in new and replacement HVAC systems.
For property owners and facility managers, this means making important decisions about system upgrades, maintenance schedules, and budget planning. Our article hopes to answer the below questions so you can be prepared.
Who exactly is affected by the EPA refrigerant mandate?
What refrigerant is exempt from the EPA recovery mandate?
What else do you need to know to comply?
Understanding the answers to these questions is crucial for making informed decisions about HVAC investments and maintenance strategies in the coming years. From learning about new refrigerants like R-32 and R-45 to preparing for potential equipment changes, this guide will help you navigate the transition smoothly and ensure compliance with the new standards.
Keep reading now to learn more from California’s heating, cooling, and refrigerant experts.
What is the 2025 Refrigerant Mandate?
Established by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), the 2025 Refrigerant Mandate requires all new HVAC installations to use refrigerants with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) below 750. It comes after the U.S. passed the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act, allowing the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to guide the country in switching to new, more eco-friendly refrigerants.
To show California’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the state’s mandate explicitly targets refrigerants used in air conditioning systems, heat pumps, and certain types of commercial refrigeration equipment. Why? Greenhouse gas emissions from the HVAC sector currently account for a significant portion of the state’s hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) emissions.
To do so, starting this year, HVAC systems will no longer be able to use certain high-GWP refrigerants, such as R-410A (which has a GWP of 2,088!), commonly found in many existing systems. Instead, the mandate promotes the adoption of newer, more environmentally friendly refrigerants like R-32 and R-45, which have significantly lower GWP values.
Overall, the new refrigerants have a much lower impact than older refrigerants like R-410A, potentially cutting direct emissions by up to 80%. While existing systems can continue operating with current refrigerants, any replacement or new installation after January 1, 2025, must comply with these stricter standards.
Why Should You Care About The 2025 Refrigerant Mandate?
Anyone with a home or business in California should care about the new refrigerant mandate for its benefits and how it may affect you. For homeowners, non-compliance with the mandate could lead to increased repair costs and difficulty sourcing phased-out refrigerants for older systems, potentially resulting in costly replacements.
For businesses, especially those in hospitality, retail, or property management, the mandate could mean substantial investments in upgrading or replacing HVAC systems to ensure compliance, avoid regulatory penalties, and maintain operational efficiency. If you have multiple locations, businesses should begin strategic planning for the costs of upgrading.
While the upfront costs may seem daunting, the mandate’s implementation coincides with various incentive programs and tax benefits designed to ease the transition to environmentally friendly systems. Even more, if you’re interested in doing your part to save the planet with sustainable and eco-friendly solutions, the 2025 refrigerant mandate aligns with your overall goals and values.
All in all, however, transitioning to new, eco-friendly refrigerants has the power to reduce energy costs and even better? By acting now, you can enhance your property’s value for future sale and mitigate future disruptions and expenses.
New Refrigerants For 2025
Now, to help you better understand the new refrigerants that are allowable in 2025 and beyond, let’s cover the two most common.
R-32 Refrigerant
With a GWP of approximately one-third that of R-410A, R-32 is one of the leading choices for HVAC systems under the new refrigerant mandate. The more environmentally friendly solution is also more energy-efficient, providing superior cooling performance while using less refrigerant per system.
The R32 refrigerant can also reduce energy consumption by 10%, lowering operating costs. Even more advantageous, the R32 refrigerant is easier to recycle and handle, making it a practical and sustainable option for residential and commercial applications.
Switching to newer refrigerants like R-32 requires updates to safety standards and
building codes. These refrigerants, classified as “2L” for lower flammability, break down faster in the atmosphere, reducing their impact on global warming, but are more flammable than older ones.
Updated codes ensure safe installation, use, and compliance while supporting technological growth. Overall, R-32 offers a practical and environmentally friendly path forward for HVAC systems, aligning with both state and federal regulations and goals.
R-454B Refrigerant
Another refrigerant compliant with the 2025 refrigerant mandate is R-454B. R-454B is one of the most promising next-generation refrigerants, offering a significantly lower GWP of 466 than traditional refrigerants (like R-410A with 2,088!).
R-454B delivers comparable performance to R-410A while requiring minimal system redesign, which can support a seamless transition. However, the R-45 refrigerant is mildly flammable (A2L classification) and requires proper handling by certified technicians.
How To Prepare For The 2025 Refrigerant Mandate
Now, the moment every homeowner and business owner has been waiting for… the steps for preparing for the 2025 refrigerant mandate. Next, we’ll outline the simple steps you can take to prepare for upcoming repairs or replacements with the new refrigerant mandate in mind.
Schedule an HVAC Inspection
The first step towards complying with the 2025 refrigerant mandate is to find out what you’re already working with! Contact an HVAC professional to evaluate your current system’s age, condition, and refrigerant type.
Plan For Equipment Upgrades or Replacement
The HVAC professional you work with will then provide a detailed report of necessary updates or replacements. Based on your inspection results, develop a timeline for upgrades or replacement. This outlines if immediate action is needed or if you can phase changes over time.
Budget For Changes
Again, due to higher up-front costs, the next step will be creating a financial plan that accounts for potential expenses, including equipment, installation, and any necessary modifications. An experienced HVAC contractor will provide information on available rebates, tax incentives, and financing options to help further prepare for the transition.
Work With Certified Technicians
Partner only with technicians with current certifications for handling low-GWP refrigerants and are familiar with the new regulations. Ensure they follow proper installation and safety protocols for new refrigerant systems, as these require specific handling expertise.
So, how can you find certified technicians and the right HVAC company to support you? Let’s get into how to choose an HVAC contractor next.
How To Choose The Right HVAC Company To Support You
When navigating the 2025 refrigerant mandate for your home or business, choosing the right HVAC partner becomes crucial for a smooth transition. An experienced, qualified HVAC company should demonstrate a thorough knowledge of the new regulations and offer clear guidance for your specific situation.
To help, here’s how to evaluate potential HVAC partners:
- Verify state licensing and insurance coverage, ensuring they meet California’s contractor requirements and maintain current certifications for handling new refrigerants. Ask for their license number and check it through the Contractors State License Board.
- Review their experience with low-GWP refrigerants and new system installations. Look for companies that have already completed training on the new technology and can provide references for similar transition projects.
- Assess their communication style and transparency around pricing, timelines, and options. A reputable company should offer detailed written proposals and explain both immediate and long-term cost implications.
- Confirm they provide comprehensive documentation of all work performed and maintain proper disposal protocols for old refrigerants.
- Verify homeowner or business owner reviews by searching online or asking the company to provide a list of references.
Are you searching for a Southern California service provider that checks off all the boxes above? Look no further than Magnolia Heating and Cooling. Our experienced team of certified technicians can help you navigate the new regulations while maximizing efficiency and minimizing costs.
Download our guide to the New Refrigerant Mandate 2025 here now to learn more. Then, schedule your consultation to get a complete inspection and assessment to plan for eventual repairs or replacements to comply.
FAQ
To finish our complete guide, we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions about the 2025 refrigerant mandate.
Does this mean I have to replace my HVAC system?
No, existing systems can continue operating with their current refrigerants. The mandate only affects new installations and system replacements after January 1, 2025.
How much will it cost to upgrade my system?
Costs typically range from $5,000 to $12,000 for residential systems, depending on size and complexity. However, various rebates and incentives are available to help offset these costs.
Can I just repair my current system instead?
Yes, you can continue repairing your existing system. However, if repairs require a complete refrigerant replacement or system overhaul, you must comply with the new regulations.
What refrigerants are being phased out?
R-410A and other refrigerants with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) above 750 will be phased out for new installations and replacements.
How can I find out if my system will be affected?
Check your system’s nameplate or maintenance records to identify the refrigerant type, or contact a certified HVAC technician for an inspection.