The short comparison
| Feature | R-454B | R-32 |
|---|---|---|
| Typical use | Ducted central AC and heat pumps | Ductless mini splits and some ducted |
| Safety class | A2L (mildly flammable) | A2L (mildly flammable) |
| Replaces | R-410A | R-410A |
| Blend or single | Refrigerant blend | Single component |
Why both exist
Manufacturers chose between the two as they redesigned equipment for the AIM Act. R-454B was adopted widely for ducted residential systems. R-32 has been used for years in ductless systems worldwide and carried over into the new standard. Both have a much lower GWP than R-410A and both are A2L.
Does it change anything for you
Servicing
Either way, your installer services the system with the refrigerant it was built for. You do not mix them, and you do not retrofit one for the other.
Efficiency and comfort
The refrigerant is not what makes a system efficient. SEER2, HSPF2, and the equipment design drive comfort and running cost. A well-matched system performs well on either refrigerant.
What to actually shop for
Pick ducted or ductless based on your home, then choose the efficiency tier and capacity that fit. The refrigerant comes with the system you choose. Current pricing shows on each product page.
Shop A2L systems, ducted and ductless
Current R-454B and R-32 systems for any home. Current pricing shows on each product page.
Common R-454B and R-32 questions
Is R-454B or R-32 better?
Which refrigerant does my brand use?
Can I mix R-454B and R-32?
Do they cool differently?
25 years sizing and shipping HVAC systems to homeowners and contractors.