Understanding The New Air Conditioning R454b Refrigerant Change
September 25, 2024
How The New Air Conditioning R454b Refrigerant Will Affect You & Your Home
If you’re in the market for a new air conditioning system or been experiencing service issues with your current air conditioning system, you may have heard discussions regarding refrigerant changes, particularly regarding R410-A, also known as Puron. These refrigerant changes have created uncertainty and confusion regarding whether to replace air conditioning equipment now or to wait for further refrigerant changes. The goal of this article is to provide a basic background on the newer refrigerant change and to also add our perspective on this common dilemma amongst homeowners with air conditioning in their home.
History:
R-410A is a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerant that has been widely used in residential and commercial air conditioning for over 2 decades. It replaced R-22, also known as Freon, which was phased out due to its ozone-depleting properties. R-22 is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon refrigerant (HCFC) that when heated by the sun releases chlorine. The chlorine atoms are found to bound with ozone and break it down. The plan to phase out R-22 and replace it with R410-A began in 1995 when the United Nations created the Montreal Protocol. This new act created a long-term phaseout plan of R-22. In 2010, the U.S. banned the sale of new air conditioning equipment that uses R-22. In 2015, production of R-22 was dramatically cut. Finally, in 2020, R-22 was completely banned in the U.S..
In 2016, the Montreal Protocol was amended with the UN Montreal Protocol Kigali Amendment which set standards for use of HFCs such as R-410A. This was due to new discoveries that founded HFCs to have a high Global Warming Potential (GWP). The act is said to help avoid a 0.5 degree celsius global temperature rise by 2100. The goal of this act was to present a timeline to change the air conditioning industry to a non-HFC environment by Jan 1st, 2025. On December 27th, 2020, the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) act of 2020 was signed by President Trump. The act solidified the next new big refrigerant change in air conditioning systems in the U.S.-R-410A equipment will no longer be produced on January 1st 2025 and the production of R-410A will stop at the end of 2036 and be phased down up to that point. Consumers and contractors are hashing out the impact to the air conditioning industry, the rest of this article will explain the facts and our perspective and advice to homeowners.
Impact To The Industry & Homeowners
The new refrigerant expected to be widely used by manufacturers is R454b. There is no doubt this change will cause the cost of air conditioning systems to go up for homeowners. Manufacturers are expecting a 15-20% increase in the cost on all new R454b refrigerant equipment. R454b offers lower Global Warming Potential (GWP). Apart from the positive impact on the environment, characteristics of this refrigerant differs from R-22 and R-410A. R454b is known to be mildly flammable and requires more cautious handling. New air conditioning systems will require sensors to detect refrigerant leaks and shut down the unit and turn on the furnace blower to help protect you and your home.
What Should I Do As A Homeowner With An Older Air Conditioner That May Be On The Fritz?
It is well known that R454b is widely tested and is safe for your home. It is semi flammable, but is known to have the same flammability as olive oil. R454b systems will require less refrigerant and also the refrigerant is known to have 50% less Global Warming Potential (GWP) than R410-A. We at Briarwood Heating and Cooling have been working diligently to ensure our staff is trained to the highest level to handle this change in the industry and deliver the best and safest service to our customers. We have been investing in training and tools that will put our staff and customers in the best possible position.
This change is quite different from the prior change from R-22 to R-410A. Before R-410A became the chief refrigerant, equipment utilizing it was produced for 18 years. New R454b equipment was first on the market July 1st, 2024. This is less than 6 months before the shift will officially take place. Additionally, R454b is known to be a more expensive refrigerant than R-410A, even with the planned phase down. The familiarity of the refrigerant and equipment to both manufacturers and contractors alike is not comparable to the previous refrigerant change. The sheer speed of this change has not allowed manufacturers to best prepare themselves for this transition. That is why it is understandable some homeowners would consider replacing with R-410A systems while available if you’re considering a system change in the near future. This is due to the decreased cost, and increased experience contractors and manufacturers have with this refrigerant and how it acts within a system.
How We Plan To Set Up Our Customers For Success
As previously said, we here at Briarwood Heating and Cooling are investing in our employees and tools, making sure our technicians will be highly prepared for this change and helping you, the homeowner, with your system no matter the refrigerant. We are very excited for changes in our industry that will overall help our environment. We do predict we will have R-410A equipment for the next year and will have access to the refrigerant until 2036; although, it will become increasingly limited as production is phased out. However, we are also offering discounts on current R-410A equipment to best set up our customers for reliable home comfort. Please call us Briarwood at 248-299-8126 if you have any further questions on this change or would like to set up a no-charge estimate in your home. We have been happily serving
Southeast Michigan including
Rochester Hills
,
Shelby Twp
,
Sterling Heights
and
Lake Orion
for over 25 years!
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Your furnace has been keeping your family warm through Michigan winters for years. But lately, something's off. Maybe it's strange noises, climbing energy bills, or that one bedroom that never warms up. You're wondering: Is it time to replace my furnace? After nearly 30 years serving Rochester Hills, Shelby Township, Sterling Heights and surrounding areas; we have completed thousands of furnace installations, we know this decision isn't always or simple. Here's our honest guide to help you decide. The Quick Answer Most furnaces should be replaced between 15-20 years . But age isn't everything. The best time to replace is when: Repair costs exceed 50% of replacement cost Energy bills have increased 15-30% over recent years Your comfort is suffering (cold rooms, constant breakdowns) Safety concerns arise (yellow flames, CO risks) Let's break down the seven clear signs it's time for a new furnace. 7 Signs It's Time to Replace Your Furnace 1. Your Furnace Is 15+ Years Old Even if it "still works," furnaces over 15 years old are operating on borrowed time. Furnaces over 15 years old are: 40% more likely to need emergency repairs 25-35% less efficient than modern systems Costing you $400-600 extra per year in energy The efficiency gap: Your 2005 furnace might have been 90% efficient when new. Today's models hit 95-98% efficiency with variable-speed operation your old system never had. Real savings: A homeowner with a 2,000 sq ft home can save $400-600 annually upgrading from an 80% system to a 96% AFUE furnace. 2. Repair Costs Are Adding Up The 50% Rule: If a single repair costs more than 50% of a new furnace, replacement usually makes more sense—especially if your system is 15+ years old. The "death spiral" pattern: Winter 2023: Blower motor - $450 Winter 2024: Ignitor and sensor - $580 Winter 2025: Control board - $720 Total: $1,750 over 3 years That $1,750 could have been a down payment on a new system with a 10-year warranty. When repair makes sense: Furnace under 10 years old Single isolated problem Repair under $500 Well-maintained system You're moving within 2-3 years 3. Energy Bills Keep Climbing What's normal: 3-5% annual increases (utility rates) Red flag: 15-30% increases over 2-3 years with similar usage Why it happens: Heat exchangers corrode, blower motors wear down, sensors drift, and debris accumulates. Your furnace runs longer to heat your home, burning more gas. 4. Uneven Heating Throughout Your Home "The upstairs is freezing while the main floor is a sauna." Sound familiar? Why old furnaces create hot/cold spots: Single-stage operation: They're either blasting at 100% or completely off Fixed-speed blowers: Can't adjust to different zones Improper sizing: Oversized systems short-cycle and create temperature swings Ductwork issues: Aging furnaces can't compensate anymore Modern solution: Variable-speed, two-stage furnaces run longer at lower speeds, distributing heat evenly throughout your home. 5. Frequent Breakdowns Listen, we like that you keep us on speed dial when something goes wrong. However, If you're calling for repairs more than once every 2-3 years, you're in the "failure zone." Why breakdowns accelerate: Parts become discontinued/scarce One failure stresses other components Diagnosis becomes more complex The emergency premium: Furnaces break during polar vortexes, not mild October afternoons. Emergency repairs cost 50-80% more due to overtime rates, rush parts, and high demand. 6. Strange Noises You've Never Heard Furnaces should be relatively quiet. New sounds often signal impending failure. Loud banging at startup: Delayed ignition (gas building up then igniting). Can crack heat exchangers and cause CO leaks. Common on 12+ year systems. Constant rattling/vibrating: Blower wheel imbalance or failed motor mounts. Repair costs $400-900—usually not worth it on 15+ year furnaces. Squealing/screeching: Blower motor bearings failing. Gets louder over weeks, eventually fails completely (usually during the coldest week). Rumbling after burner shuts off: Potentially cracked heat exchanger. This is a safety emergency. Shut off your furnace and call us immediately at 248-299-8126. Modern furnaces are remarkably quiet. If yours sounds like a jet engine, it's time for an upgrade. 7. Yellow or Flickering Burner Flame (SAFETY CRITICAL) What's healthy: Steady, blue flame (perhaps small yellow tip) What's dangerous: Mostly yellow/orange flame, flickering, or visible soot What it means: Incomplete combustion, which causes: Carbon monoxide production (safety risk) Wasted energy (higher bills) Soot buildup (damages components) Common causes on 15+ year furnaces: Cracked heat exchanger Dirty burners (years of buildup) Improper air mixture Failing gas valve CARBON MONOXIDE WARNING: If you notice: Yellow flame Soot around furnace Family headaches or flu-like symptoms CO detector alarming SHUT OFF YOUR FURNACE IMMEDIATELY and call us at 248-299-8126. This is a genuine emergency. We typically recommend immediate replacement for furnaces with yellow flames over 15 years old, as repair costs approach new system costs. The Repair vs. Replace Decision Tree REPAIR Makes Sense: ✅ Under 10 years old ✅ Single, clear issue ✅ Repair under $500 ✅ Well-maintained ✅ Energy bills stable ✅ Moving within 2-3 years REPLACE Makes Sense: ✅ 15+ years old ✅ Multiple/recurring issues ✅ Repair over $1,000 ✅ Bills increasing significantly ✅ Uneven heating ✅ Staying 5+ years ✅ Safety concerns High-Efficiency vs. Standard: Worth It? Quick comparison for 2,000 sq ft home: 80% AFUE (Standard): Installed: $3,800-4,800 Annual heating: ~$1,450 10-year total: ~$18,300 96% AFUE (High-Efficiency): Installed: $5,500-7,000 Annual heating: ~$1,085 10-year total: ~$16,350 Net savings over 10 years: $1,950+ Payback: 4-5 years High-efficiency also provides: Better comfort (variable-speed = even temps) 50-70% quieter operation Better air filtration Higher home resale value Our recommendation: For homeowners staying 5+ years, high-efficiency systems almost always make financial sense AND provide dramatically better comfort. Financing & Incentives (2026) Financing: 0% for 18 months No prepayment penalties Federal Tax Credits: Up to $600 for 97%+AFUE furnaces Utility Rebates: DTE Energy: gas customers Up to $300 Consumers Energy: Up to $300 Total savings example: 97%AFUE furnace: $6200 Federal credit: -$600 Consumer Energy gas rebate: -$300 Net cost: $ 5300 or $294/month for 18 months (0% APR) with a minimum monthly payment for approved homeowners Why Choose Briarwood? 25+ Years Serving Rochester Hills We're your neighbors. Family-owned. Built on trust. Always here. Trane Comfort Specialist Elite dealer status with factory-extended warranties and advanced training. 4.9 Stars, 580+ Google Reviews Our reputation speaks for itself. 24/7 Emergency Support Real humans, real availability.
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Furnaces 1. How often should I service my furnace? It’s recommended to have your furnace serviced annually, ideally before the heating season begins. Regular maintenance ensures efficient operation and extends the furnace's lifespan. Check out our coupons on Briarwood’s website for savings! 2. How do I know if my furnace needs repairs? Common signs include strange noises, uneven heating, high energy bills, frequent cycling on and off, or a yellow pilot light (if applicable). Call Briarwood if you notice these issues. 3. What size furnace do I need for my home? The size depends on your home’s square footage, insulation, climate, and energy efficiency. An HVAC professional can help to determine the correct size. If you are in need of an estimate to replace your furnace, Call Briarwood for a no cost estimate in your home. 4. What’s the average lifespan of a furnace? A well-maintained furnace typically lasts 15-20 years. Regular maintenance can help achieve or exceed this lifespan. 5. Should I upgrade to a high-efficiency furnace? High-efficiency furnaces (with AFUE ratings of 90% or higher) can lower energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint. Consider the upfront cost versus long-term savings when deciding. 6. What type of filter should I use for my furnace? The type depends on your furnace model and your indoor air quality needs. Pleated filters offer good filtration for most homes. Check the owner’s manual for compatibility. Another option is electronic air cleaners like the Aerus Air Scrubber designed by NASA. Humidifiers 1. Why do I need a humidifier? Humidifiers add moisture to dry indoor air, which can prevent dry skin, alleviate respiratory issues, and protect wooden furniture and floors from cracking. 2. What types of humidifiers work with furnaces? Furnace-compatible humidifiers include bypass, fan-powered, and steam humidifiers. Each type has its advantages; consult with Briarwood for a professional to determine the best option for your home. 3. How do I maintain my furnace humidifier? Included in your Furnace clean and check from Briarwood is cleaning your humidifier, drain lines and changing the evaporator pad. 4. What’s the ideal indoor humidity level in winter? Aim for 30-50% relative humidity. Levels below 30% can cause dry air, while levels above 50% may encourage mold and dust mites. 5. Can a humidifier damage my furnace? Properly installed and maintained humidifiers won’t damage your furnace. However, neglecting maintenance can lead to leaks or mineral buildup, potentially causing issues. 6. Do I need a humidifier if I have a high-efficiency furnace? High-efficiency furnaces often dry out the air more than older models. A humidifier can improve comfort, even in homes with modern heating systems. General Questions 1. Can I run my furnace and humidifier simultaneously? Yes, they are designed to work together. The furnace heats the air, and the humidifier adds moisture, improving overall comfort. 2. How do I know if my home is too dry? Signs of dry air include static electricity, dry skin, irritated sinuses, and cracking wood. A hygrometer can measure indoor humidity levels. 3. What should I do if my humidifier or furnace isn’t working? Check for common issues like power supply problems, clogged filters, or incorrect thermostat settings. If the problem persists, contact Briarwood Heating and Cooling to schedule one of our top notch technicians to repair your system. 4. Can I install a furnace humidifier myself? While it’s possible for handy homeowners, professional installation ensures proper setup and avoids potential issues. It may also preserve warranties. This FAQ is designed to address common questions and concerns related to furnaces and humidifiers. For more specific issues or guidance, consult Briarwood Heating and Cooling at 248-299-8126 . We have been proudly serving Rochester, Shelby Twp, Sterling Heights, Lake Orion and surrounding areas for over 25 years!
When it comes to maintaining the comfort and safety of your home, your boiler is one of the most vital components. It’s responsible for keeping you warm during the colder months and in some cases ensuring your hot water is always available. However, like any mechanical system, a boiler requires regular care to function optimally. One of the key aspects of this maintenance is the boiler clean and check. Here’s why these services are crucial for your boiler's performance, safety, and longevity. What Are Boiler Clean and Checks? A boiler clean and check involve a comprehensive maintenance routine performed by a professional technician. Call Briarwood Heating & Cooling of Rochester Hills to schedule a boiler expert to come to your home at 248-299-8126. This process typically includes: Cleaning: Removing dirt, dust, and debris from the boiler’s internal components. Inspection: Checking all parts of the boiler for wear, damage, and proper function. Testing: Ensuring the system operates efficiently and safely. Adjustments: Making necessary adjustments to optimize performance and efficiency. Why Regular Cleaning and Checking Are Essential Maximized Efficiency Over time, boilers can accumulate grime and soot, which can reduce their efficiency. A thorough cleaning removes these obstructions, allowing the boiler to operate more efficiently. This not only helps in reducing energy consumption but also lowers your utility bills, as a cleaner boiler uses less fuel to produce the same amount of heat. 2. Enhanced Safety A well-maintained boiler is a safe boiler. Regular clean and checks are crucial for identifying potential safety hazards such as: Carbon Monoxide Leaks: Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. Regular checks help ensure that your boiler’s flue and ventilation are functioning correctly, reducing the risk of leaks. Gas Leaks: A professional can check for any gas leaks that might pose a safety risk. Faulty Components: Ensuring that all components are in good working order helps prevent dangerous malfunctions. Water leaks: A professional can check for water leaks before it causes damage to your home 3. Extended Lifespan Boilers are a significant investment, and regular maintenance helps protect that investment. By removing dirt and debris and fixing minor issues before they become serious problems, you can extend the lifespan of your boiler. This proactive approach can help you avoid costly replacements and repairs in the future. 4. Consistent Performance A clean and well-maintained boiler operates more reliably. Regular clean and checks help ensure that your boiler performs consistently, keeping your home warm and your hot water flowing without unexpected breakdowns. This reliability is especially important during the winter months when you depend on your boiler the most. 5. Lower Repair Costs Minor issues caught during routine maintenance are usually less expensive to fix than major problems that arise from neglect. By investing in regular clean and checks, you can avoid the higher costs associated with emergency repairs and significant breakdowns. When to Schedule a Boiler Clean and Check For optimal performance, it’s recommended to schedule a boiler clean and check at least once a year. The best time to arrange this service is before the heating season begins, so your boiler is ready to perform efficiently when you need it the most. However, if you notice any unusual noises, reduced efficiency, or other issues, it’s a good idea to schedule a check sooner. What to Expect During a Clean and Check During a boiler clean and check, a technician will typically: Clean the Boiler: Remove any accumulated soot, dust, and debris from the boiler’s components. Inspect: Examine key components such as the burner, heat exchanger, and flue for signs of wear or damage. Test: Ensure that the boiler operates efficiently and safely, checking for proper combustion and ventilation. Adjust: Make any necessary adjustments to improve performance and efficiency. Conclusion Regular boiler clean and checks are essential for maintaining the efficiency, safety, and longevity of your heating system. By investing in these routine services, you ensure that your boiler operates at its best, providing consistent warmth and hot water while minimizing the risk of costly repairs and safety issues. If it’s been over a year since your last boiler service, or if you’re experiencing any issues with your heating system, don’t wait—schedule a clean and check with a qualified professional today. Keeping up with this crucial maintenance will give you peace of mind and help ensure your home remains comfortable and safe throughout the year. Call the boiler experts at Briarwood Heating and Cooling at 248-299-8126 . We proudly have been serving Grosse Pointe, St Clair Shores and surrounding Oakland and Macomb County for over 25 years!
