The HVAC industry is undergoing a major refrigerant transition. If you’ve heard about new refrigerants like R-454B or R-32, you might be wondering what this means for your home comfort system. The short answer: older refrigerants like R-410A are being replaced with more eco-friendly options. But the transition hasn’t been without challenges—R-454B supply shortages and backorders are already affecting homeowners.
The good news? ECI Comfort has stayed ahead of the curve. We offer Daikin, Amana, and Goodman systems using R-32 refrigerant, a proven alternative that’s readily available. In this post, we’ll break down what’s going on, compare R-454B vs. R-32, and show how ECI Comfort can help you avoid delays and stay cool.
Why Are HVAC Refrigerants Changing?
Concerns about ozone depletion and global warming have driven refrigerant changes:
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R-22 (Freon) was phased out due to ozone harm.
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R-410A, its replacement, had no ozone impact but a high Global Warming Potential (GWP).
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Starting January 1, 2025, the U.S. EPA mandates low-GWP “A2L” refrigerants for all new residential AC and heat pump systems.
The two major alternatives are R-454B and R-32, both offering lower GWPs and improved energy efficiency.
Meet the New Refrigerants: R-454B vs. R-32
| Refrigerant | GWP* | Composition | Safety Class | Adoption & Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R-410A (Outgoing) | 2088 | 50% R-32 / 50% R-125 | A1 (non-flammable) | Widely used; phased out by 2025 |
| R-454B (New) | 466 | ≈69% R-32 / 31% R-1234yf | A2L (mildly flammable) | Limited rollout, current supply shortages |
| R-32 (New) | 675 | Single component (HFC) | A2L (mildly flammable) | Used globally since 2012; over 230 million units installed |
*GWP = Global Warming Potential compared to CO2 (lower is better)Key facts:- R-32 is globally proven and easy to manage (single component, no blend issues).- R-454B has a slightly lower GWP but is new, a blend, and currently faces major supply shortages.- Both require additional safety measures (due to mild flammability), which have been incorporated into modern system designs.
R-454B: Why the Shortages?
R-454B’s rollout in 2024-2025 has been rocky:
1. Limited cylinder production can’t meet overwhelming demand.
2. Mass market switchovers from R-410A have strained supply.
3. Supply chain and logistics delays have led to long wait times (up to 10 weeks in some cases).
Homeowner impact:
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Delays in repairs or new system installations.
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Higher costs due to supply-demand price spikes.
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Special technician certification required, limiting contractor availability.
R-32: A Proven, Available Solution
In contrast, R-32 has been in wide use since 2012 and avoids all current shortages:
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Over 230 million units installed worldwide in nearly 130 countries.
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10-12% more efficient than R-410A systems.
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No major global supply chain issues; R-32 is readily available for new systems and service needs.
By choosing R-32, homeowners get reliability, proven safety, better efficiency, and immediate availability.
ECI Comfort’s Solution: R-32 Systems from Daikin, Amana, and Goodman
Daikin
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Global leader behind R-32 adoption.
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High-efficiency AC and heat pump units with proven durability.
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Fully A2L compliant.
Amana (S-Series)
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Premium high-efficiency heat pumps and air conditioners.
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SEER2 ratings in the mid-to-high teens.
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Eco-friendly and ultra-quiet with smart diagnostics.
Goodman
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Inverter-driven “side-discharge” and two-stage R-32 models.
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Excellent value, lower energy use, and precise comfort control.
Bottom line: We have R-32 systems in stock or with very short lead times—no delays, no backorders.
Homeowner Benefits: Stay Cool Without the Wait
No delays: Upgrade anytime, even before peak summer.
Proven reliability: R-32’s track record spans millions of safe installations.
Eco-friendly comfort: ~70% lower GWP than R-410A + lower energy bills.
Future-ready: Fully compliant with 2025 EPA standards.
ECI Comfort expertise: Our certified technicians ensure safe, optimized installations.
Ready for a Worry-Free Upgrade? Contact ECI Comfort Today!
The refrigerant transition is causing challenges across the industry—but not at ECI Comfort. If you’re considering upgrading your AC or heat pump, or have questions about R-454B, R-32, and what it means for your home, contact us today. Stay cool, efficient, and ahead of the curve with an R-32 system from ECI Comfort! Schedule a consultation or AC tune-up with ECI Comfort and experience the difference of working with a company that puts your comfort first.
If you live in the Delaware Valley/Greater Philadelphia area and would like to find comfort within your home, visit our website or give us a call at 215 - 245 - 3200 to learn more.
