Texas Heat and A2L Refrigerants: What College Station Homeowners Need to Know

If you’re a homeowner in College Station, Bryan or anywhere in the Brazos Valley, you know your air conditioner isn’t just a convenience, it’s a necessity. But starting now, in 2025, big changes are happening to the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) industry, and they could impact your next AC repair or system replacement. The shift? A move toward new, environmentally friendly refrigerants called A2L refrigerants, including R-32 and R-454B.

Here’s what you need to know to stay cool and compliant in the Texas heat.

What Are A2L Refrigerants?

A2L refrigerants are low global warming potential (GWP) alternatives to older refrigerants like R-410A, which is being phased down due to environmental concerns, and R-22 which is no longer being imported or manufactured in the USA. The “A2L” classification means these refrigerants are:

• Lower in flammability (not explosive, but mildly flammable under certain conditions)

• Environmentally friendly, with much lower GWP ratings

• Efficient, offering better energy performance in many HVAC systems

Two of the most common A2L refrigerants in the market in 2025 are:

• R-32 – Already widely used in Europe and Asia; offers excellent efficiency

• R-454B – Set to become the leading R-410A replacement in many U.S. systems

Why This Matters in College Station

Let’s be real, summers in College Station can be brutal, with triple-digit temperatures pushing your HVAC system to the limit. That means your system:

• Runs longer

• Burns more energy

• Is more prone to breakdowns

If your AC system is 10+ years old, now is a critical time to understand how the refrigerant change could affect your options moving forward.

What Happens If You Need HVAC Repairs After 2025?

Starting January 1, 2025, most new residential HVAC systems sold will be designed for A2L refrigerants. Here’s how that affects you:

Repairing an older system (R-410A):

• You’ll still be able to get parts and refrigerant (for now), but supply will dwindle.

• Prices for R-410A are expected to rise due to production cuts.

• Repairs may become more expensive over time.

Replacing a system:

• New systems will use R-32 or R-454B and require different handling due to A2L safety standards.

• Your technician must be up-to-date on A2L standards or certified to work with A2L refrigerants, which we are.

• A2L systems may have slightly different installation requirements, including updated ventilation or leak detection components and any added accessory to your AC system will need to be installed in a safe, compliant way.

Are A2L Refrigerants Safe?

Yes. When installed and serviced by certified HVAC professionals like us at Impact AC Services, A2L refrigerants like R-32 and R-454B are completely safe. Their Classification and rating (hence the “2L”) is more about regulation than risk.

Most importantly, A2L refrigerants have been used safely for years around the world, and U.S. systems will include additional safeguards like:

• Leak sensors

• Proper airflow design

• Updated building codes (we’re up to speed on all local requirements)

• Ventilation

• Accessories mitigation

Should You Replace Your HVAC System Now or Wait?

This depends on your situation:

• If your system is still reliable, there’s no immediate need to replace it.

• If your system is nearing the end of its life, replacing will require up to date equipment and certified installation technicians.

• If you’re building or remodeling, any new system will likely need to be A2L-compatible and design with fresh air in mind.

Either way, it’s smart to call us to speak with a certified technician familiar with A2L refrigerants in College Station.

Long-Term Benefits of A2L Refrigerants

• Lower energy bills due to increased system efficiency

• Reduced environmental impact (great for eco-conscious homeowners)

• Improved heat exchange properties

• Superior AC efficiency

• Future-proof compliance with EPA regulations

Bottom Line for College Station Homeowners

The refrigerant change is here, but with the right HVAC partner, you can transition smoothly and safely. Whether you’re planning a full system replacement or just want to understand your options, our team at Impact AC Services is here to help you stay cool, safe, and compliant in the Texas heat.

Need help deciding if your HVAC system is ready for the A2L transition?

📞 Call us today for a free consultation, we’re College Station’s trusted source for A2L refrigerant expertise and HVAC service.