What the AIM Act actually changed
The EPA AIM Act limits the global warming potential (GWP) of refrigerant in new HVAC equipment. R-410A has a GWP above the new threshold, so it was phased out of new system production. The change is about what manufacturers can build, not about what you are allowed to own or run.
| Date | What changed |
|---|---|
| January 1, 2025 | New residential split-system air conditioners and heat pumps can no longer be manufactured or imported with R-410A. New systems use A2L refrigerant (R-454B or R-32). |
| January 1, 2028 | The same cutoff reaches packaged and self-contained units. |
| Ongoing | Servicing and refilling existing R-410A systems with R-410A stays legal for the foreseeable future. |
What it means if you already own an R-410A system
Nothing forces you to act. You can keep running it, have it serviced, and refill it with R-410A. R-410A is still produced for servicing and will be available for years. The phase-out applies to new equipment, not to the system on your pad today.
What new systems use instead
New equipment ships with A2L refrigerants. R-454B is common in ducted air conditioners and heat pumps from many brands. R-32 is common in ductless mini splits and some ducted systems. Both have a much lower GWP than R-410A and are classified A2L, which means mildly flammable, handled with leak sensors and updated system design.
When to plan a replacement
If your R-410A system is aging or a major repair comes up, that is the moment to weigh a new A2L system. A newer system is more efficient and starts a fresh warranty. If your unit is young and healthy, there is no rush. When you are ready, browse current A2L systems and the live pricing shows on each product page.
Shop new A2L (R-454B) systems
Current-generation systems built for the post-R-410A standard. Current pricing shows on each product page.
Common R-410A phase-out questions
Do I have to replace my R-410A system?
Is R-410A still available for refills?
What refrigerant do new systems use?
Will R-410A get more expensive to refill?
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