Richmond AC Replacements | R454B Refrigerant

Serving Customers in Mechanicsville & the Nearby Areas Since 1989

Beginning January 1, 2025, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is disallowing the manufacture of air conditioning systems, specifically those using R-410A refrigerant (also known as Puron). Manufacturers must now use R454B, which is better for the environment but can be costly for homeowners. 

New AC systems with R454B are anticipated to be up to 30% more expensive because of their added safety features and environmental protections. Replacing your existing system now with a current model can save you money and future stress. 

At Blazer Heating, Air, and Plumbing, our licensed and insured technicians are known for their commitment to customer satisfaction. We are a NATE Certified HVAC company, which means that we have proven technical competence and an in-depth understanding of air conditioning systems. Customers can trust us not just because of our experience and commitment to excellence but also because of our proven track record of success.

Don't miss this opportunity to upgrade your HVAC system while maximizing your savings. Learn more about how R454B changes impact your system and how we can help navigate the transition. Call (804) 277-2458 today. 

The AIM Act & Impact on Refrigerants

The American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act, signed into law in December 2020 as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, represents a landmark piece of legislation addressing hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and their environmental impact. The act aims to phase down the production and consumption of HFCs, which are potent greenhouse gases commonly used in refrigeration, air conditioning, and various industrial applications. Encouraging the implementation of a comprehensive strategy to reduce HFC usage, the AIM Act aligns the United States with global efforts to mitigate climate change and transition to more environmentally friendly alternatives.

The legislation establishes a structured approach to HFC reduction, creating a phasedown schedule that will dramatically cut HFC consumption over the next 15 years. The EPA is tasked with implementing the act's provisions, which include creating a nationwide allowance allocation and trading system. This mechanism provides flexibility for industries while maintaining a clear path to significant emissions reductions. 

The phasedown is expected to prevent billions of metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions in the coming decades, which is comparable to taking all current U.S. passenger vehicles off the road for over 40 years. This transition is not just beneficial for the environment but is also a potential driver of technological advancement and economic growth in the green technology sector. 

As an industry that utilizes refrigerant, Blazer Heating, Air, and Plumbing has been preparing for changes in the HVAC industry and refrigerant mandates, and we are prepared to help homeowners adapt to the upcoming changes. 

How Homeowners Can Prepare in Light of the Mandate

If you have an older HVAC system, you should replace it as soon as possible. Our team recommends 15 SEER units. A 15 SEER unit indicates that the system can produce 15 units of cooling for every unit of electricity consumed; the SEER rating measures the cooling output of an air conditioner over a typical cooling season, divided by the energy it consumes in watt-hours.

By acting now, you can experience the following benefits of the refrigerant mandate:

• Take advantage of current tax benefits
• Avoid potential price increases
• Improve your home's energy efficiency

Let Us Replace Your System & Help You Get Ahead of the Mandate

Blazer Heating, Air, and Plumbing offers comprehensive AC replacement services. Should you have an older system or worry about whether you should replace your system before the new regulations go into effect, we are happy to talk through your options and our recommendations. We have the skills and experience needed to help you navigate the replacement process smoothly and offer financing options.

We also offer service discounts to new customers and make ourselves available 24/7 to take service requests. Let us help you install a new or replace an old HVAC system before the new regulations make it more costly. 

Reach out to us at (804) 277-2458 to schedule a consultation or request a free estimate.