The HVAC industry is changing fast — and one of the biggest shifts coming to homes across Northern California involves the refrigerants that make your air conditioner or heat pump run.
At Jazz Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing, we believe homeowners deserve to understand what these changes mean, why they matter, and how they can affect comfort and costs. Here’s your complete guide to eco-friendly refrigerants, upcoming phaseouts, and how to prepare your home’s system for the future.
What Exactly Is a Refrigerant?
Refrigerant is the chemical compound that circulates through your air conditioning or heat pump system, absorbing heat from inside your home and releasing it outdoors. Without refrigerant, there’s no cooling cycle — and no comfort.
Over the decades, refrigerant formulations have evolved to balance efficiency, safety, and environmental responsibility. Early types cooled effectively but damaged the ozone layer. Newer versions are far safer for the planet — and they’re the future of home comfort.
A Quick Look Back: R-22 and R-410
If your system is older, it may still use one of these refrigerants:
- R-22 (Freon): Phased out in 2020 due to high ozone depletion potential (ODP).
- R-410A (Puron): Introduced as a cleaner replacement with no ODP, but still contributes to global warming due to its high global warming potential (GWP).
Starting in 2025, even R-410A systems will begin to be replaced by next-generation refrigerants with lower environmental impact.
The Future: R-32 and A2L Refrigerants
The HVAC industry is transitioning toward new, low-GWP refrigerants, such as R-32 and R-454B. These are sometimes called A2L refrigerants — mildly flammable but much more environmentally friendly.
Here’s what makes them different:
| Feature | R-410A | R-32 | R-454B |
| Ozone Depletion | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Global Warming Potential (GWP) | 2,088 | 675 | 466 |
| Efficiency | Standard | 10–12% higher | Similar to R-32 |
| Environmental Impact | Moderate | Low | Very Low |
That means systems using R-32 or R-454B refrigerants are more sustainable and efficient — a big win for both homeowners and the environment.
Why the Change Matters to Northern California Homeowners
1. Lower Environmental Impact
Northern California communities — from Santa Rosa and Napa to Sebastopol and Petaluma — are known for environmental awareness. By upgrading to systems using low-GWP refrigerants, you’re reducing greenhouse emissions and helping California meet its climate goals.
2. Improved Efficiency
R-32 and R-454B systems can transfer heat more effectively, resulting in lower energy bills and faster cooling — especially important during hot, dry summers and wildfire smoke events when you rely on your HVAC most.
3. Future-Proofing Your System
As older refrigerants phase out, repair costs will rise due to limited availability. Installing a next-gen system now protects your investment and ensures you’ll have access to affordable maintenance and parts down the road.
How to Know What Refrigerant Your System Uses
Look for a label on your outdoor AC unit or heat pump — it will list the refrigerant type (e.g., R-22 or R-410A). If you’re not sure, Jazz Heating & Air Conditioning can check during your next tune-up or service visit.
Rule of thumb:
- Systems installed before 2010 likely use R-22.
- Systems installed between 2010–2024 likely use R-410A.
- New systems (2025 and beyond) will transition to R-32 or R-454B.
What This Means for System Replacement
If your system is nearing the end of its life (12–15 years old), it’s worth planning an upgrade now.
Benefits of upgrading to an eco-friendly HVAC system:
- 10–20% higher energy efficiency
- Quieter operation
- Compatibility with new refrigerants
- Lower long-term service costs
- Better indoor air quality with modern filtration features
At Jazz, we offer high-efficiency, low-GWP systems designed for Sonoma and Napa County climates, balancing sustainability with performance.
Common Myths About New Refrigerants
“New refrigerants are less powerful.”
Not true. R-32 and R-454B cool just as effectively as older types — and often faster, thanks to better thermal conductivity.
“They’re unsafe because they’re flammable.”
A2L refrigerants are only mildly flammable under extreme conditions. When installed correctly by certified professionals like Jazz, they’re completely safe for residential use.
“I can just top off with the new refrigerant.”
Unfortunately, refrigerants aren’t interchangeable. Systems must be specifically engineered for the refrigerant type they use.
What About Repairs on Older Systems?
If your system uses R-22 or R-410A and develops a leak, it’s often not cost-effective to repair. The refrigerant itself can be expensive and hard to find, and the system may not meet new efficiency standards.
Jazz’s technicians can assess your system honestly — helping you decide whether repair or replacement makes more financial and environmental sense.
Local Impact: Sustainability in Sonoma and Napa
Northern California homeowners are increasingly choosing eco-friendly upgrades that match the region’s sustainability mindset. Many even pair new HVAC systems with solar energy, reducing both carbon footprint and long-term utility costs.
Whether you live near the Russian River, Sonoma Plaza, or Highway 101, choosing a low-GWP HVAC system is one of the smartest home upgrades for the coming decade.
The Jazz Approach: Comfort That’s Future-Ready
At Jazz Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing, we stay ahead of HVAC technology so our customers don’t have to. Our licensed, insured team installs and services eco-friendly HVAC systems that meet current and upcoming EPA standards — ensuring your comfort is efficient, quiet, and sustainable.
We handle everything from system sizing and installation to annual tune-ups, helping your home stay cool while doing right by the planet.
Ready to Go Green (and Stay Comfortable)?
- Call Jazz Heating & Air Conditioning today to learn about eco-friendly HVAC upgrades.
- Ask our team about next-generation refrigerants and which systems qualify for rebates or tax credits.
- Don’t wait—future-proof your comfort now with an energy-efficient installation from Jazz.
Jazz Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing — leading the way in sustainable comfort for Northern California homes.