R-454B Refrigerant
Opteon XL41 / Puron Advance - EPA Approved R-410A Replacement
Overview
R-454B is a zeotropic blend of R-32 (68.9%) and R-1234yf (31.1%), developed as a low-GWP replacement for R-410A. With a GWP of only 466, it exceeds EPA requirements for new HVAC systems starting January 2025.
Marketed as Opteon XL41 by Chemours and Puron Advance by Carrier, R-454B has become the preferred refrigerant choice for major US HVAC manufacturers transitioning away from R-410A.
Key Advantage: R-454B offers similar performance characteristics to R-410A, making the transition easier for manufacturers and technicians while achieving 78% lower GWP.
Technical Properties
Pressure-Temperature Chart
Full Chart →R-454B is a zeotropic blend with a 1.3°C temperature glide. Both dew point and bubble point pressures are shown below.
| °C | °F | Dew Point | Bubble Point | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| psig | kPa | psig | kPa | ||
| -20 | -4 | 35.9 | 348 | 33.7 | 333 |
| -10 | 14 | 58.7 | 505 | 55.8 | 486 |
| 0 | 32 | 87.3 | 703 | 83.7 | 678 |
| 10 | 50 | 122.6 | 947 | 118.0 | 915 |
| 20 | 68 | 165.5 | 1,242 | 159.8 | 1,202 |
| 30 | 86 | 217.0 | 1,597 | 209.8 | 1,547 |
| 40 | 104 | 278.0 | 2,018 | 269.0 | 1,956 |
| 50 | 122 | 349.6 | 2,512 | 338.5 | 2,435 |
R-454B vs R-410A
| Property | R-454B | R-410A |
|---|---|---|
| GWP | 466 | 2088 |
| GWP Reduction | 78% Lower | Baseline |
| Safety Class | A2L | A1 |
| Temperature Glide | 1.3°C | ~0.1°C |
| Operating Pressure | Slightly Lower | Baseline |
| Capacity | ~95-98% | 100% |
| Efficiency (COP) | Similar | Baseline |
| 2025 Status (US) | Approved | Banned (New) |
Manufacturers Using R-454B
Residential HVAC
- Carrier - Puron Advance systems
- Trane - XR17/XL17i series
- Lennox - Select models
- Rheem / Ruud - Select models
Commercial HVAC
- Carrier - Commercial rooftop units
- Trane - Light commercial
- York - Select models
A2L Safety
R-454B is classified as A2L (mildly flammable). Follow these safety guidelines:
- Use A2L-rated recovery equipment
- Ensure adequate ventilation
- No open flames or sparks
- Liquid charging only
- Complete A2L training
Zeotropic Blend
R-454B has a 1.3°C temperature glide. Important considerations:
- • Always charge as a liquid
- • Use bubble point for superheat calculations
- • Use dew point for subcooling calculations
- • Do not "top off" - recover and weigh
Applications
-
Residential Central AC
-
Light Commercial AC
-
Heat Pump Systems
-
Rooftop Units (RTU)
-
Packaged Terminal AC (PTAC)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I retrofit an R-410A system to use R-454B?
No, R-454B is not a drop-in replacement for R-410A. While they have similar operating characteristics, R-454B requires equipment specifically designed for A2L refrigerants with appropriate safety features. Existing R-410A systems should continue using R-410A for service.
What is the difference between Opteon XL41 and Puron Advance?
They are the same refrigerant (R-454B). Opteon XL41 is the trade name used by Chemours (the manufacturer), while Puron Advance is the brand name used by Carrier for their R-454B systems. Both have identical chemical composition and properties.
How do I charge R-454B correctly?
R-454B must always be charged as a liquid because it's a zeotropic blend. Vapor charging will change the composition due to fractionation. Use a scale to weigh the charge and never "top off" - always recover the existing charge and weigh in the correct amount.
Why does R-454B have two pressure readings (dew/bubble)?
R-454B is a zeotropic blend with a 1.3°C temperature glide, meaning it boils and condenses over a range of temperatures. The bubble point is where the liquid starts to boil, and the dew point is where the last vapor condenses. Use bubble point for superheat calculations and dew point for subcooling calculations.
What training do I need to work with R-454B?
In addition to EPA Section 608 certification, technicians should complete A2L refrigerant safety training. Many manufacturers and industry organizations offer this training. Key topics include proper handling of mildly flammable refrigerants, required equipment, and leak detection procedures.