Understanding the New R-454B Refrigerant Standard
Table of Contents
Summary
When looking at R-410A vs R-454B, the refrigerant R-454B has a nearly 80% improvement over R-410A, which ensures that it meets global environmental standards.
As an Albany County homeowner, you need to be prepared for year-round weather changes, from heavy snow and sub-zero nights to humid summers. With an up-to-date Mitsubishi Electric ductless system, you can relax knowing you are ready to face whatever the weather brings.
If you are looking to move away from oil or propane or own a home without ducts, Ridgeline Heating and Cooling can upgrade your current system. Our professionals are Elite Diamond Contractors who are trained in person and certified by Mitsubishi as specialists1. Using an Elite Diamond Contractor ensures you receive the Elite Diamond Contractor Advantage, which guarantees the full-length 12-year factory warranty. When you decide to commit to a future-proof system, choose a skilled contractor who maintains training in the changing standards.
The Shift to R-454B: What Albany Homeowners Need to Know
In 2020, the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020 (AIM Act) was passed by the federal government. The act gives the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) authority over hydrofluorocarbons (HFC) products and related technologies, several of which are used in heating and cooling. In part, the EPA has mandated a shift toward products with a lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) that aligns with a global effort to phase out products made of ozone-depleting substances (ODS)2.
While many people are aware of the damage carbon dioxide causes to the ozone layer, previously permitted HFCs produced GWPs, sometimes hundreds to thousands of times more potent. New standards are considerably more environmentally friendly2.
The new mandates for refrigerants went into effect on January 1, 2025. This means any newly installed systems will use the more environmentally friendly refrigerant R-454B.
R-410A vs. R-454B: Comparing the Standards
When looking at the GWP listed, a refrigerant with a lower value is better for the environment3. Older models used the R-410A refrigerant, which has a GWP of 2088. The new R-565B refrigerant has a GWP of 466, which is well below the 700 GWP threshold3. When looking at R-410A vs R-454B, the refrigerant R-454B has a nearly 80% improvement over R-410A, which ensures that it meets global environmental standards.
When looking at the new R-565B refrigerant, you may see flammability warnings. However, this is not cause for concern, as proper safety precautions are included with your system upgrade. Models created for the new refrigerant have safeguards built in. These include leak detection and improved ventilation pathways. When installed by trained professionals, the A2L flammability rating poses minimal risk4.
Why Mitsubishi Electric Is Ready for the Change
Mitsubishi proactively adopted the R-454B refrigerant standard in its latest mini-split models as a commitment to global efforts to improve the climate. The CEO describes new products as having a GWP 78% lower than R-410A and increased efficiency. More than simply adopting the standards, newer models also come with enhancements that include Smart Dry mode, wireless capability, and lower operating temperatures5. These models can operate in temperatures as low as minus 22 degrees Fahrenheit, helping Albany residents keep warm through the winter.
Alongside Mitsubishi, Ridgeline Heating and Cooling ensures Albany residents receive their full 12-year factory warranty when our Elite Diamond Contractors provide your upgrade. Our long-term parts availability and serviceability allow you to choose a Mitsubishi model with confidence that it will last many years to come.
Future-Proofing Your Home Comfort
With the AIM Act standards fully in effect as of January 1, 2025, previously existing systems will gradually become more expensive to service. The regulations make producing the older refrigerants, such as the R-410A, significantly more expensive. As the supply lessens, the costs on these older refrigerants will increase drastically3.
While older models are seeing increased service costs, newer Mitsubishi systems that use R-454B refrigerant work more efficiently and can lower the cost of your utility bills. Making a future-proof upgrade is the ideal choice, not just for the environment, but also for your pocketbook.
Request your estimate today.
FAQ
What is R-454B refrigerant?
Meant to replace R-410A refrigerants in compliance with the AIM Act of 2020, R-454B is a new refrigerant that is part of a global effort to reduce greenhouse gases. R-454B refrigerants have a nearly 80% lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) than their predecessors.
Does the transition to R-454B refrigerant mean I have to replace my existing system immediately?
Refrigerants used for previous systems will remain in production. However, the refrigerants used for those systems will gradually become more cost-prohibitive to maintain. While you don’t need to upgrade your existing system immediately, the cost to replace its refrigerant will continue to increase with time due to production costs and demand for a product that is being phased out.
Can my current R-410A system be “topped off” with the new R-454B?
When comparing R-410A vs. R-454B, there are similarities, but they are not interchangeable. To meet the environmental standards and safety requirements, R-454B refrigerant must be installed in a new system designed with those in mind3. New systems have safety mechanisms to protect from flammability. Additionally, R-454B requires a different compressor and condenser because it operates at a lower pressure than R-410A.
Are there specific safety requirements for installing systems using R-454B?
Technicians should be trained on certain requirements before installing new systems that use R-454B refrigerant. Installation equipment must be able to safely handle the flammability level of A2L classified refrigerants, which includes the refrigerant R-454B3. The requirements extend to recovery machines, vacuum pumps, and gauge manifolds.
Additionally, while piping usually does not need replacing when upgrading your system, the pipes must be completely cleaned. Technicians should ensure there are no remnants of previous refrigerants, including oil or other contaminants. While cleaning the pipes, they should be pressure-tested and checked for leaks to ensure the new refrigerant can be installed with the existing pipes3.
Will the new R-454B refrigerant standards make my monthly cooling costs more expensive?
Upgrading to the new R-454B refrigerant standard can actually reduce your cooling costs. New models have a longer lifespan and perform more efficiently, which can help lower your monthly utility costs.
Sources:
- (12 May 2024). Diamond Contractors: Your Partner for a Hassle-Free Installation. Mitsubishi Electric. Retrieved March 2, 2026, from https://www.mitsubishicomfort.com/articles/the-diamond-contractor-a-homeowners-best-friend
- (12 February 2026). Frequent Questions on the Phasedown of Hydrofluorocarbons. EPA. Retrieved March 2, 2026, from https://www.epa.gov/climate-hfcs-reduction/frequent-questions-phasedown-hydrofluorocarbons
- (10 September 2024). A Guide to Refrigerant R454B and R32. MEP Academy. Retrieved March 2, 2026, from https://mepacademy.com/a-guide-to-refrigerant-r454b-and-r32/
- R-454B vs. R-410A Why the New Refrigerant is Better. Home Outlet Direct. Retrieved March 2, 2026, from https://homeoutletdirect.com/blogs/blog/r-454b-vs-r-410a
- (17 April 2025). Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US Launches New Low GWP All-Electric, All-Climate Heat Pump Collection. Mitsubishi Electric. Retrieved March 2, 2026, from https://www.mitsubishicomfort.com/press-releases/low-GWP-products-announcement