R-410A vs R-454B 2026 Low-GWP Refrigerant Guide

2026 EPA Compliance

R-410A vs R-454B 2026 Low-GWP Refrigerant Transition Guide

Everything homeowners and contractors need to know about EPA AIM Act regulations, low-GWP refrigerants, and equipment compatibility.

AIM Act Mandate: Effective January 1, 2025/2026, all newly manufactured residential AC and heat pump systems must utilize refrigerants with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) under 700.
R-454B (Opteon XL41): The primary low-GWP replacement for R-410A in residential HVAC, offering a 78% reduction in GWP rating (466 vs 2,088).
Existing R-410A Systems: Homeowners with existing R-410A systems can continue operating and servicing them without penalty. R-410A refrigerant remain available for field service.

Refrigerant Spec Comparison

Property	Legacy R-410A	New R-454B (Low-GWP)
Global Warming Potential (GWP)	2,088 (High GWP)	466 (78% Lower)
ASHRAE Safety Classification	A1 (Non-Flammable)	A2L (Mildly Flammable)
Operating Pressure	High Pressure	Similar to R-410A
2026 EPA Legal Manufacturing Status	Phase-Out Active	100% EPA Compliant