HVAC Refrigerant and SEER Changes in 2025
Are you shopping for a new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system in Calgary, or the surrounding area? If so, you will want to read this first.
Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) raised the minimum efficiency requirements for central air conditioners to 14 SEER and air-source heat pumps to 15 SEER. All newly installed systems must meet these minimum standards.
Additionally, under the Montreal Protocol, Canada has been phasing down the manufacture and importation of R-410A, a commonly used refrigerant for residential cooling systems, for several years now. Starting in 2025, R-410A will no longer be allowed in the manufacturing of new HVAC systems.
The two changes will create a new generation of HVAC systems designed to be more efficient and environmentally friendly. But you’ll also pay more to enjoy these new features, a factor to consider if you plan to replace your equipment in the next few months.
Distinct Heating & Cooling is a trusted name for providing quality HVAC service to Calgary, households and businesses. Give us a call for any questions you have about your next home improvement project!
What Is SEER and How Does it Impact HVAC Systems?
The seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) measures cooling system efficiency. The higher the number, the better the efficiency.
SEER ratings for AC units and heat pumps have increased from 13 to 14 and 14 to 15 SEER, respectively—or 13.4 and 14.3 SEER2, respectively.
The increase in efficiency means you will use less electricity for the same amount of cooling. Your Calgary, home’s carbon footprint will shrink, and so will your utility bills. However, you can expect manufacturers to increase prices to accommodate the new technology required to sustain the higher SEER/SEER2 ratings.
Is your cooling system more than eight years old and less than 15 SEER? Now is the perfect time to replace it. Why keep outdated, obsolete equipment that will drive up your electric bills? Call Direct Heating & Cooling today for a free consultation and upfront pricing.
What Is SEER2?
SEER2 represents new testing standards for cooling systems. The testing standards give consumers a more accurate picture of how an installed HVAC system will perform.
Similar to the changes in the SEER rating, these new testing standards do not impact your current system. The new testing requirements mean any equipment the manufacturers produce must now adhere to SEER2 standards.
New Refrigerants in 2025
Prior to the phase down, residential cooling systems contained an A1L refrigerant called R-410A. This hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) has a high global warming potential (GWP) of 2,088 and could harm the environment if it leaks from a cooling system.
For that reason, NRCan is phasing down the manufacture and importation of HFCs and requiring the use of a refrigerant with a GWP of 750 or less.
Beginning next year, all new cooling systems will contain an A2L refrigerant, such as R-32 or R-454B, with significantly lower GWPs.
A2L refrigerants are more environmentally friendly than their predecessors, but they are also mildly flammable and require additional training from HVAC technicians. You can rest assured that our Direct Heating & Cooling will know how to handle them safely.
What If My Cooling System Uses R-410A?
Although R-410A will be available for equipment repairs over the next decade, no new air conditioners or heat pumps will contain R-410A beginning in 2025.
You do not have to replace any equipment because of the new refrigerant changes.
A well-maintained AC system will last 10 to 15 years. If you need a new unit, buy it this year. There should be enough R-410A to last the life of your system, but the cost of replacing the refrigerant might creep up eventually if you need a repair.
Can I Retrofit My AC to Use R-454B?
No. Refrigerants operate at different pressures. An R-410A air conditioning or heat pump system will not be calibrated to use R-454B.
Even if you could retrofit your equipment to handle different refrigerants, the cost of doing so would likely approach the price of a new system. Plus, you would more than likely void your existing warranty.
You can save money immediately on utility bills by upgrading today to a high-efficiency system with the new refrigerant and SEER ratings. Plus, you’ll pay less in purchasing costs. Our trained professionals can walk you through the pros and cons.
Call Your HVAC Experts Today
Our team at Direct Heating & Cooling looks forward to sharing new information about HVAC systems with all our customers in Calgary, and the surrounding areas. That includes changes to refrigerants and SEER ratings. Schedule a free consultation today—call us at 403-477-3810 or request service online.