
Thanks to Baltimore’s humid summers and cold winters, Maryland homeowners need efficient and effective HVAC systems to provide maximum comfort year-round. However, with rising concerns about global warming and our environment, there has been more focus recently on how our nation can lower our carbon footprint without sacrificing home comfort.
As part of the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020, the U.S. is phasing out the manufacturing and import of refrigerants that produce greenhouse gasses to promote more environmentally friendly alternatives and technologies.
As a result, Baltimore homeowners who purchase an air conditioner, ductless mini-split, or heat pump after 2025 will notice a rise in cost due to these new regulations.
In this article, the experts at United Air Temp discuss why HVAC costs are on the rise and the impact new refrigerant requirements will make on consumers and the HVAC industry.
Why Are HVAC Equipment Costs Rising?
Homeowners who haven’t replaced an HVAC system in over a decade may experience sticker shock when they see the current cost of new equipment. Plus, these prices are expected to keep rising.
Stricter environmental regulations have had the greatest impact on pricing. These regulations require that manufacturers use eco-friendly, low-GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerants like A2L and energy-efficient technologies, all of which are expensive to produce.
Manufacturers are seeing a rise in costs by creating equipment compliant with new refrigerant regulations and meeting updated efficiency standards. Retooling and redesigning systems to meet the minimum required SEER2 or HSPF2 leads to higher production costs, which are then passed on to the customer.
In addition, the cost of refrigerants alone has quadrupled while raw materials like copper line sets, PVC piping, and more have also increased. When combined with supply chain disruptions due to transport delays, labor shortages, and overall higher consumer demand, new HVAC systems have become an even bigger investment for homeowners.
R-22 vs. R-410A vs. R-454B
The HVAC industry has used various refrigeration options as it has attempted to move toward options that are less harmful to the environment and the ozone layer.
- R-22, or Freon, was used until 2020 when the EPA banned it for its detrimental effects on the ozone layer. Its emissions are directly tied to global warming and even created an “ozone hole” over the South Pole.
- R-410A is a type of A1 refrigerant. It’s a blend of hydrofluorocarbons that replaced Freon, which will no longer be manufactured or imported starting in 2025. This refrigerant operates at high pressures, creating an increased risk of leaks that can harm the environment.
- R-454B is the newest refrigerant option that will replace R-410A in 2025. As an A2L refrigerant, it has a lower GWP than previous options, making it the most environmentally friendly choice on the market. It also has no ozone depletion potential and has low toxicity.
What Does the Refrigerant Change Mean for Homeowners?
While the transition to low-GWP refrigerant will significantly change the HVAC industry, only homeowners looking for an HVAC replacement will be immediately impacted.
Advantages
The overall impact of the new mandate is positive for our communities and our environment. This switch is one major way the U.S. attempts to reduce its carbon emissions and move toward a greener future.
Thanks to their unmatched efficiency, new A2L refrigerants have 78% less GWP than prior refrigerants. For consumers, this translates into better performance and lower energy bills.
Considerations
Like any major change, the switch to A2L refrigerants will take time. It will likely cause supply chain disruptions and require current HVAC professionals to undergo new and additional training.
Outside of these issues, the only other negative impact on customers is cost. Because new designs, parts, and safety features are needed, new compliant systems may cost up to 30% more than older units.
Finance Your HVAC Replacement
If you’re ready to improve your comfort while reducing your carbon footprint, call United Air Temp. We’re proud to offer financing options for Baltimore customers with a variety of budget-friendly plans and an easy application process. With approved credit, you’ll have access to:
- Low down payments
- Low interest rates
- Low monthly payments
Choose United Air Temp for HVAC Replacement in Baltimore
If you need a new HVAC system, UAT will make the process as seamless as possible. Since 1931, we’ve provided outstanding HVAC services that homeowners trust.
Our highly trained technicians offer superior work with unparalleled customer care, all backed by a satisfaction guarantee.
We offer upfront pricing for all our services and products. Plus, with our free estimates and unmatched expertise, you can trust you’re in excellent hands with our team.
Replace your HVAC system with United Air Temp. Call today to schedule a service in the Baltimore area.
