A2L Refrigerant Transition Resource Guide
Welcome to our A2L Refrigerant Transition Resource Guide. We hope to keep you informed on the latest information regarding the transition to A2L refrigerants.
Manufacturers will no longer produce matched systems with 410A refrigerant after January 1st, 2025. There are no guarantees or timelines on how long the existing equipment will remain available.
New Era of Low GWP Refrigerants
The American Innovation & Manufacturing (AIM) Act directs the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to implement a phasedown of the production and consumption of HFCs by 2035. As part of this work, the EPA has published a rule that beginning January 1, 2025, the U.S. Federal Government will require Residential HVAC equipment to use refrigerants with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of less than 700.
A2L Defined
Refrigerant Classification is defined by ASHRAE 34. The first digit refers to toxicity. The A is lower toxicity, the B is higher toxicity. The numbering 1, 2L, 2, and 3 refer to flammability. The lower the number, the lower the flammability. 2L is the lowest flammability classification, refrigerants with this classification are difficult to ignite and non-explosive.
Benefits of the Refrigerant Change
- Environmental Impact: A2L Refrigerants have a lower Global Warming Potential compared to traditional Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) such as R-410A. This means their potential to contribute to global warming if released into the atmosphere is significantly lower.
- Energy Efficiency: A2L Refrigerants often have better thermodynamic properties, which can lead to improved energy efficiency in cooling systems.
A2L Compatible Tools
Crescent Parts & Equipment is fully stocked on the essential A2L compatible tools from both Fieldpiece & JB Industries that will allow you a smooth transition through this regulated refrigerant change. For a full list of A2L compatible tools, check out our ‘Must Have Tech Tools’ product page. You can also Click Here to download our A2L tool list. You must be signed in to your account to view the tools. Don’t have an account? Register here!
Education
The introduction of A2L refrigerants marks a significant shift in our industry, which brings new considerations that impact installation, handling, and safety protocols. That is why training on this subject is more important than ever. Crescent Parts is working towards filling our upcoming Spring training session with A2L education courses. However, in the meantime, please take advantage of these resources available to you:
AHRI is putting an emphasis on a safe refrigerant transition with their wide offering of Low GWP Refrigerant fact sheets, presentations, and webinars. Click Here to take advantage of their free A2L educational resources.
Eversource has just announced that contractors with current universal EPA 608 certification will NOT be required to take a new EPA certification course. Universal EPA 608 certifications will be grandfathered in. Energize CT, however, will require contractors to take an additional A2L safety class. Energize CT’s contractor’s website offers an e-learning center where you take an online qualifying course as well. Click Here In addition, certifications can be found on ESCO’s website under EPA 608 “2.0”.
Another great online course available through ESCO is their Low GWP Refrigerant Safety: Flammable and Mildly Flammable (A2L) Refrigerants. Click Here
Crescent Dealers are encouraged to check out and attend the A2L classes offered by our FSRs. Visit the Crescent Parts Training Page to discover upcoming A2L classes available in your area!
Crescent Parts A2L Trainings