HVAC Shopping? Here’s What You Need To Know

Savvy consumers like to avoid a homeowner crisis by learning what appliances are the best long-term and cost-effective solutions. If you’re seeing signs of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) failure (age, frequent repairs, inconsistent temperatures, low airflow or poor air quality, noises, short cycling, etc.), a system replacement is in your future. Here’s what you need to know before you buy.

New Freon Laws

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), directed by the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act (AIM Act) of 2020, is reducing hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) by 85%. Industries using refrigerants must phase out coolants for those having a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 700 or less. 

As of April 2025, the most widely used air conditioning coolant (R-410A) must be discontinued and replaced by more environmentally friendly refrigerant compositions. This will reduce greenhouse emissions and lower AC bills while improving energy efficiency, a win-win for Northwest Harris County homeowners. New HVAC systems will now use A2L refrigerant alternatives R-454B and R-32. 

What this means:

• Building codes throughout cities and counties will be modified to reflect the new A2L requirements.
• Most HVAC dealers began transitioning residential ACs to R-454B in 2024. For example, Trane began the transfiguration by converting its XR15 SEER2 heat pump.
• New ductless HVACs can delay compliance to January 1, 2026. 
• New HVACs using A2L systems now include leak detection and automatic shutoff sensors.
• R-454B has zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) and lower toxicity.
• R-454B’s GWP is more than 75% lower than R-410A.
• The cost for newer air conditioning units may be higher to cover new materials and labor for AC manufacturing switch-ups.
• Using the new refrigerant should reduce monthly electric bills.

Your home’s older HVAC cooling unit can continue using R-410A. Trane, a leading air conditioning manufacturer says even with the new refrigerant regulations, “You will still be able to get HVAC service on your AC unit that uses an older refrigerant. Your HVAC technician will have access to stockpiled supplies. And when the time comes to replace your HVAC system, you will be able to choose one using the new, more sustainable, energy-efficient R-454B refrigerant.”

Other HVAC Need-To-Know Info

Air conditioner repair and replacement companies are beginning to feel some concern about their overhead costs plus direct expenses may soon be affected by the April 5, 2025 ten-percent tariff on most imported goods, including the 125% tariff on Chinese imports. Most U.S.-based HVAC manufacturers use imported components. One HVAC warranty company urged consumers with heating and cooling systems aged 10+ years to consider replacement now before prices skyrocket. Lengthier installation times may also be in the future and some repair options may take longer.

Some European countries want to reduce their reliance on Russian gas. Many HVAC influencers agree that the future of HVAC is electric heat pumps, as energy-efficiency and decarbonization are prioritized. However, gas-fueled traditional HVACs continue to offer homeowners fast cooling at affordable prices despite environmental and safety concerns. In many countries, harsh winter weather decides HVAC options, but in Texas, gas vs. electric cooling and heating system choices continue to be driven by individual homeowner preferences.

Other considerations when planning a HVAC system replacement or new-home installation are:

• Indoor air quality purification systems are preferred standard features for Tomball HVAC shoppers, and for many, humidity control capability is critical.
• Subscription-based models may soon impact the HVAC industry. Homeowners would pay a monthly fee for installation and maintenance of heating and cooling systems.
• Texas shoppers want smart home systems that integrate with their air conditioning for the convenience of voice commands and mobile app control.

Country Air is a full-service residential and commercial HVAC company located in Magnolia, Texas serving the greater North Houston area and providing 24/7 emergency HVAC service to Tomball and surrounding communities. We’re committed to customer satisfaction, and we welcome your questions. Text us or call 281-356-8564 to learn more.

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