With Global Warming increasing at an estimated rate of 0.25°C per decade, it’s not surprising that people rely more heavily on air conditioning systems to combat the heat. This is most prevalent during summer in hotter areas like Austin, Texas. Additionally, the ongoing climate change has caused longer and hotter summers in the city and the state.
Many older air conditioning systems are less efficient than today’s high-efficiency models. Since there are households that still use pre-2025 air conditioning systems, electricity bills are constantly on the rise, as well as the ERCOT (Electric Reliability Council of Texas) grid strain.
What do the Austin homeowners who still have a pre-2025 air conditioning system need to know before this summer? And do they need to switch to a better system soon?
The short answer is yes, but there are things to consider and information to research before doing so.
Here’s everything you need to know if you still have an older AC system in Austin, and how you could switch to a more energy-efficient option.
Why HVAC System Changes in 2025 Matter for Austin Homeowners
If you’re still using older HVAC systems, then you might still experience poor AC performance and high electricity bills. Before the summer comes, it’d be best to consider swapping your old model for a newer and more energy-efficient one.
The Department of Energy (DOE) began introducing the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2 (SEER2) in 2023, while 2025 marked the industry’s transition toward lower global warming potential refrigerants. Updates to Heat Seasonal Performance Factor 2 (HSPF2) and Energy Efficiency Ratio 2 (EER2) for heat pumps were also included.
Due to these updates, the minimum efficiency requirements have increased for most split-system air conditioning systems in Texas, and most of the newer systems have also upgraded to more advanced refrigerants and components. That said, what exactly does this mean for Austin homeowners?
- Increased upfront costs for newer HVAC systems: The new HVAC systems cost more upfront due to the better technology it brings, upgraded components, and updated installation requirements.
- Future-proofing for newer models: Despite the increased upfront price, your future savings will thank you for replacing older models with a more energy-efficient one in terms of maintenance and power consumption.
- Exclusive Austin Energy Rebates: Eligible homeowners may qualify for rebates tied to SEER2-compliant models (around $600 to $1450 for ACs and heat pumps or $800 to $3,000 for whole-home upgrades).
- ERCOT Grid Reliability: Because the newer models are proven to be energy-efficient, it causes less strain on the ERCOT grid, especially during peak demand.
The Shift Away From R-410A Refrigerant
For the past 20+ years, R-410A, also known as Puron, has been the refrigerant used in most residential central air conditioning systems. Unfortunately, this refrigerant has an alarmingly high Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 2,088, which makes it a potent greenhouse gas if leaked.
With the current status of global warming, it’s undeniable how high a contributor these older models were. And to combat this, the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s American Innovation and Manufacturing Act (U.S. EPA’s AIM Act) and Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol are phasing down the use of these high-GWP refrigerants, like R-410A, with a goal of an 85% reduction by 2036.
Thankfully, newer systems are now opting to use lower GWP A2L refrigerants to comply.
How New Systems Are Different Since 2025
The primary changes that all newly manufactured residential air conditioners and heat pumps in the United States must comply with are the SEER2 ratings and the refrigerant transition from older ones like R-410A. While it may not sound like a lot, these changes are enough to be noticeably different from pre-2025 systems.
Other than the overall improvement in efficiency, here are the notable differences for the new systems since 2025:
- SEER2 rating has ultimately replaced the old SEER rating for better efficiency and humidity, especially during the hot summers in Austin
- The replacement of R-410A refrigerants with A2L ones like R-32 or R-454B for significantly less GWP, overall efficiency, and advanced safety features
- Upgraded variable-speed or two-stage compressors (replacing the old basic single-stage) for better humidity and temperature control and improved energy savings
- Long-term cost-efficiency, rebate incentives, and compatibility
What This Means for Air Conditioning Reliability During Austin Summers
Given the general climate in Austin, summertime in this city is considered among the most demanding in the U.S., with triple-digit temperatures, high humidity, and increased strain on the ERCOT grid.
However, thanks to the 2025 HVAC changes, we’re bound to see some positive impacts on the overall reliability of air conditioning systems. These benefits include:
- The transition to modern components and better design
- Improved efficiency that allows higher SEER2 systems to run more steadily at lower capacities without overworking during hot summers
- ERCOT grid-friendly operation, which is crucial during peak demand, as well as safety measures in reducing the chance of voltage fluctuations and blackouts
- Better humidity control for the overall reduction of mold and comfort issues
Understanding the New Refrigerant and Why It Replaced R-410A
The R-410A refrigerant has served its purpose in most HVAC systems in the U.S. for decades, but it’s time for its much-needed replacement. In place of this old refrigerant are the A2L-class refrigerants, R-32 and R-454B.
The R-32 is as an efficient single-component refrigerant that requires a lower charge. On the other hand, the R-454B is built to be a close match to R-410A’s performance, but with a significantly lower climate impact.
The key advantages of these new refrigerants are as follows:
- Significantly less GWP – roughly 75% lower climate impact
- Energy efficiency – paired with higher SEER2 ratings
- Lower charge requirement – with systems using 20% less refrigerant volume
What Is an A2L Refrigerant Type?
Based on the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), refrigerants are classified by two main factors:
- Toxicity level: A = lower toxicity, B = higher toxicity
- Flammability: 1 = no flame propagation, 2L = mildly flammable, 2 = flammable, 3 = highly flammable
Now, based on the newer refrigerant “A2L,” the A stands for lower toxicity that’s safe for normal use, and the 2L is equivalent to mildly flammable, which is generally harder to ignite, burns slowly, and needs a higher concentration and spark to ignite.
R-454B and R-32 Offer Lower GWP Than Previous Refrigerants
One of the major catalysts for the switch to R-454B and R-32 refrigerants for air conditioning and heat pump systems is the high GWP of older refrigerants. And the difference in numbers is highly significant.
The older R-410A or Puron may be classified as A1, which is non-flammable, but the GWP is over 2,000. On the other hand, both R-454B and R-32 are both A2L (mildly flammable) with respective GWPs of 470 and 675. In short, we’re looking at roughly a 75% GWP reduction.
Global Warming Potential GWP and Environmental Impact Explained
GWP refers to how much heat greenhouse gases trap in the atmosphere in a span of 100 years, in contrast to carbon dioxide, which yields a GWP of 1. This basically means that a higher GWP gives the gas a higher potency for causing global warming, and GWP is the standard scientists and governments use to evaluate the overall impact of refrigerants.
What Homeowners With R-410A Systems Should Expect
If you still own an R-410A system, you might notice some short- to long-term implications if you haven’t decided on replacing it. For starters, yes, repairs are still possible for this equipment, but you might feel a gradual decline over time. There would be no immediate ban for these systems, but the harm done to the environment is a possibility.
In terms of prices and repair costs, this will obviously increase as the production of R-410A components slowly declines. You can gauge your strategy for replacing them by basing off the targeted 85% reduction by 2036.
Repair or Replace? How the New Transition Impacts HVAC System Decisions
If you ever need to repair your old AC system, it might be best to just go for a complete replacement and transition to the newer ones. Remember that the availability of parts is starting to decrease, therefore increasing the costs and difficulty of maintaining them.
Other key factors to consider include:
- The age of your system, which also reflects its decline in efficiency
- The system’s strain on the ERCOT grid, especially during Austin summers
- The incentives and rebates you’re missing out on
Signs It May Be Time to Upgrade to One of the New Systems
If you’re looking for a sign to replace your old HVAC system, then this is it. The higher costs, decline in efficiency, and increased demand on the ERCOT grid and the environment should be more than enough to make that transition.
Yes, it’s considered a major investment upfront, but you’ll surely feel the difference in efficiency, sustainability, and incentives. It’s also a great way to future-proof your system, reducing the need to repair and replace parts.
What Austin Homeowners Should Know Before Summer Air Conditioning Season
While we’ve already gone through many reasons why it would be a good idea to start replacing your HVACs, there are still a few more to consider. Despite the benefits, it’s still a must to be well-prepared before transitioning, especially before summer comes.
It’s important to do your own research so you can be knowledgeable about what works best for you and your home. Other than self-research, you can also take advantage of free assessments from Austin Energy’s participating contractors to find a suitable HVAC system.
Furthermore, it’s best to discuss the long-term maintenance, safety measures, warranty, and eligibility for incentives and rebates.
FAQs
Can I Still Repair an HVAC System That Uses R-410A Refrigerant?
Yes, you can still have an HVAC system with an R-410A refrigerant repaired. There’s no immediate ban for this system, but you might notice a gradual decline, scarcity in materials, and higher pricing in repairs and components.
Are New Systems Required to Use A2L Refrigerants?
According to the U.S. EPA’s AIM Act, newly manufactured systems must comply with the use of lower-GWP A2L-class refrigerants in place of R-410A. While a grace period exists to grant a smooth transition, this is winding down quickly to pave the way for efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
Is the New Refrigerant Better for the Environment?
Yes, A2L refrigerants are definitely better for the environment. Older refrigerants have a GWP of more than 2,000, while the newer ones have roughly 75% less.
How Long Will AC Refrigerant for Older Systems Be Available?
It’s expected that older AC refrigerants will be available for a few more years since there’s no exact date for their complete ban. However, there will be a noticeable decline in availability and increased prices.
