R-32 vs R-410A vs R-454B
Comprehensive refrigerant comparison for the 2025 transition
R-410A Phase-Out Notice
As of January 1, 2025, R-410A is banned in new residential and light commercial HVAC systems in the US. Existing systems can continue to use R-410A for service.
Quick Comparison
| Property | R-32 | R-410A | R-454B |
|---|---|---|---|
| GWP (Global Warming Potential) | 675 | 2088 | 466 |
| Safety Classification | A2L | A1 | A2L |
| Composition | Pure (CH₂F₂) | R-32 (50%) + R-125 (50%) | R-32 (68.9%) + R-1234yf (31.1%) |
| Type | Pure HFC | Near-Azeotropic | Zeotropic |
| Temperature Glide | 0°C | ~0.1°C | ~1.3°C |
| Pressure @ 40°C (104°F) | 337.5 psig | 306.1 psig | ~290 psig |
| ODP (Ozone Depletion) | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2025 Status (US) | Approved | Banned (New) | Approved |
| Trade Names | Difluoromethane | Puron, Genetron AZ-20 | Opteon XL41, Puron Advance |
Detailed Analysis
R-32
Next-Generation Pure Refrigerant
Advantages
- 68% lower GWP than R-410A
- Higher volumetric capacity
- No temperature glide (pure)
- Lower refrigerant charge
- Dominant in Asia (70%+ market share)
Considerations
- Mildly flammable (A2L)
- Higher discharge temperature
- Higher operating pressures
R-410A
Legacy Standard (Being Phased Out)
Advantages
- Non-flammable (A1)
- Well-established technology
- Widely available
- Extensive service knowledge
Considerations
- Banned for new systems (2025)
- High GWP (2088)
- Production declining 70% by 2029
- Prices expected to increase
R-454B
EPA-Approved Low GWP Alternative
Advantages
- Lowest GWP (466)
- EPA SNAP approved
- Similar performance to R-410A
- Preferred by US manufacturers
- Lower operating pressure
Considerations
- Mildly flammable (A2L)
- Temperature glide (1.3°C)
- Requires A2L-rated equipment
- New technician training needed
R-410A Phase-Out Timeline
R-410A banned for new residential and light commercial systems (GWP > 700)
R-410A production reduced by 70% from baseline
R-410A production reduced by 80% - continued availability for service
R-410A production reduced by 85% - service-only availability
Understanding A2L Refrigerants
What is A2L Classification?
A2L indicates a refrigerant with low toxicity and lower flammability. The "L" designation means it has a low burning velocity (<10 cm/s), making it significantly safer than traditional flammable refrigerants.
Key Point: A2L refrigerants require an ignition source AND specific concentration levels to ignite. Normal operating conditions do not create ignition risks.
A2L Safety Requirements
- Use A2L-rated recovery equipment
- Ensure adequate ventilation during service
- Avoid open flames and sparks in work area
- Use refrigerant leak detectors rated for A2L
- Complete EPA Section 608 + A2L training