What type of refrigerant does a home AC use?
Most modern home air conditioners run on R-410A refrigerant. Older units used R-22, a refrigerant that’s being phased out under environmental rules. In some newer models—particularly in markets pushing low-GWP refrigerants—you may encounter alternatives such as R-32 or R-452B. The exact refrigerant is listed on the unit’s nameplate or in the owner’s manual.
Current landscape for residential refrigerants
The refrigerant you’ll find in a new residential central air conditioner in the United States and many other regions is typically R-410A, a 50/50 blend of R-32 and R-125. It does not deplete the ozone but has a relatively high global warming potential. Regulators are pushing lower-GWP options, and some manufacturers now offer models using R-32 or R-452B as part of an industry-wide transition.
The following list highlights the refrigerants you are most likely to encounter in home cooling equipment, from legacy to contemporary options.
- R-410A — The dominant refrigerant in new residential central air conditioners and heat pumps in many regions; a non-ozone-depleting HFC blend with relatively high global warming potential.
- R-32 — A single-component refrigerant used in some newer, lower-GWP units; offers similar cooling capacity but with a lower overall GWP than R-410A. It is flammable in concentrated form, so it requires careful handling.
- R-452B — A newer low-GWP blend marketed as a replacement for R-410A in selected models; adoption varies by market and manufacturer.
- R-22 — A legacy refrigerant used in older equipment; production for new equipment ended under phased regulations, with service restricted to recycled/reclaimed supplies.
- R-290 — Propane-based refrigerant used in some mini-splits and smaller units; highly flammable and typically limited to certain installation types with proper safety measures.
In practice, most homes with brand-new equipment today will use R-410A or a low-GWP variant like R-32/R-452B, while older homes may still rely on R-22 and will need to consider replacement options as regulations and availability evolve. A licensed HVAC technician can confirm the exact refrigerant on your system and advise on service or upgrades.
How to identify your refrigerant
The quickest way to confirm the refrigerant type is to check the outdoor condenser's nameplate, which lists the refrigerant, system model, and charge information. The indoor section and the owner's manual may also include this data. If you’re unsure or dealing with an older system, contact a licensed HVAC technician for verification before any service or retrofit.
What the label shows
Look for a line that explicitly states the refrigerant (e.g., "Refrigerant: R-410A" or "R-22"). The service ports, colors, and labeling on the equipment will align with the refrigerant type to ensure proper handling and charging.
Summary
Today’s home air conditioning landscape is defined by transition. New equipment almost universally uses R-410A, with a growing subset adopting lower-GWP substitutes such as R-32 or R-452B. Older systems may still rely on R-22, though its production has ended and service relies on reclaimed refrigerant. Regardless of the system, always rely on a licensed technician for identification, charging, and any refrigerant work to ensure safety and compliance with environmental rules.
Can a homeowner buy 410A refrigerant?
The EPA has rules about the purchasing of refrigerant according to its Clean Air Act, Section 608, 40 CFR Part 82, Subpart F. The rules state that those who purchase R-410A or any other ozone-depleting substance or ODS must have EPA certification.
Which is safer R-410A or R32?
In contrast, R32 is a more environmentally responsible choice because of its significantly lower GWP of 675. Although it has the same ODP of zero as R410A, it is a safer choice for the environment due to its lower impact on global warming.
How do I know if my AC is 410A or R22?
Device such as this one right. Here that's an R22 thermostatic expansion valve. And here's an R410A thermostatic expansion valve. But now not only do you have to determine if it's R22 or R410A.
When was 410A phased out?
R-410A is not completely phased out, but its use in new equipment has been phased out. As of January 1, 2025, the production and import of new HVAC systems using R-410A are banned in the United States. While existing R-410A systems can still be serviced, the refrigerant will become less available and more expensive over time as its production is gradually reduced.
Timeline of the phase-out
- January 1, 2025: Manufacturers are prohibited from producing or importing new HVAC equipment that uses R-410A.
- Through 2025: New R-410A systems manufactured before the deadline can still be installed.
- After 2025: While some R-410A refrigerant and components will remain available for servicing existing systems, its supply will decrease and prices will rise.
- By 2030: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) aims to reduce the production and consumption of R-410A by 85% compared to 2020 levels.
What this means for homeowners
- If your current HVAC system uses R-410A, you do not need to do anything immediately. It will continue to work and can be serviced, notes United Heating Cooling and Plumbing and Trane.
- When it's time to replace your system, new units will use an alternative refrigerant, such as R-32 or R-454B, which have a lower Global Warming Potential (GWP).
- Service and repairs for existing R-410A systems may become more expensive in the future.
