Key Upgrades to Refresh Your HVAC System in 2025

By Brian Sodoma, for Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing

With the phasedown of R-410A refrigerant starting January 1, 2025, the residential HVAC market will see some big changes in the coming years. As part of the technology transition, newly purchased and installed air conditioners after that date will need to have refrigerants with a lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) than in the past, according to the EPA. So, what does this mean for everyday homeowners?

We asked an HVAC pro about what to expect and how to keep your HVAC system running efficiently for years to come.

Repair or Replace? That Is the Question

While homeowners with legacy air-conditioning systems using R-410A will be able to use and maintain their equipment for the entirety of their useful life, according to the EPA, newly purchased ACs will need to feature lower emission refrigerants like R-454B and R-32. Likewise, if a whole-new system is installed, it will need to have a lower GWP refrigerant.

As the industry moves away from R-410A, some experts estimate that the price of a new air conditioning unit could increase between 15% to 30% in the short term. Looking down the line, the costs of maintaining older systems and getting parts could potentially become more expensive too, they believe.

Meaning homeowners will want to weigh the pros and cons of keeping what they have or getting a new unit depending on the condition of their current AC.

“I would say it’s a case where if you have a unit that is on its last leg, an AC replacement before the end of the year is probably a good idea,” said Jim Hughes, director of field training at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. “There’s really no panic here. Those with newer systems will be able to have them serviced, but again, if your air conditioning unit is on its last leg, waiting a year or two could cost you.”

Benefits of Installing a Zoned HVAC System

If you’re thinking about getting a new AC unit, one way to maximize efficiency is a zoned HVAC system. A zoned HVAC system involves installing dampers into your home’s ductwork that route cool air to where it’s needed most.

With a zoned system, an HVAC professional asks about your daily habits and which rooms are the most used. The entire system can be programmed to fit your lifestyle when you’re at home — or even when you’re not. When paired with a smart thermostat, a zoned system can be a real efficiency game changer.

Repair and Seal Ductwork

Ductwork only has a lifespan of about 25 years and can begin to deteriorate after 15 years. Older ductwork that has been exposed to moisture may have rust, and depending on the humidity levels of where you live, it may be collecting bacteria, mold and other impurities. These issues can pose problems for allergy sufferers, in particular.

“For improved HVAC performance, whether you’re replacing your existing air conditioner or not, getting ductwork cleaned, as well as repaired and sealed, helps your system operate more optimally,” Hughes said.

Get an Upgrade for Attic Insulation

Most homeowners probably haven’t measured the thickness of their attic insulation. However, the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association estimates about 90% of U.S. homes are under-insulated. If you’re unsure, here’s a simple metric to consider: If your attic has less than seven inches of insulation, it’s under-insulated.

“Depending on where you live, it’s a good idea to have 18 inches, or more, insulation in your attic,” said Hughes. “If you are under-insulated, bringing it up to proper levels could see 20% or more in energy savings.”

Schedule a System Checkup

With the refrigerant phasedown on the horizon and winter around the corner, it’s the perfect time to schedule an HVAC tune-up. You can use the appointment to bring peace of mind that your current system is in good working order, and also educate yourself on the upcoming changes, as well as other best practices for getting the most out of your HVAC system.

“Our technicians are fielding a lot of questions about the upcoming changes, and they’re happy to answer them. Write down all your questions about your HVAC system before the tech arrives, and ask as many as you want. There are no bad questions,” said Hughes.

To learn more about how to refresh your HVAC system, visit https://serviceexperts.main/.