On the Brink of Change

How one residential HVAC contractor has been preparing for the A2L refrigerants transition.

Residential HVAC contractors must prepare for sweeping changes as the industry shifts toward A2L refrigerants, driven by federal mandates aimed at reducing environmental impact, according to Russell Kimball, Owner of Evergreen State Sheet Metal Inc. in Everett, Washington.

“I’m already a year ahead in converting to A2L systems,” Kimball says. His foresight is underscored by ongoing regulatory changes that he warns could render some present-day information obsolete by next year.

THE WHY BEHIND THE SHIFT

The impetus for this transition centers on the Global Warming Potential (GWP) targets set by the American Innovation & Manufacturing (AIM) Act, which gave the Environmental Protection Agency the authority to phase down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) like R410A, which is currently used on all manufactured residential air conditioners and heat pumps.

“We’re phasing down R410A, which has a GWP of 2088, and replacing them with lower-GWP refrigerants like R32 and R454B, which have GWPs of 675 and 467, respectively,” says Kimball, who’s company was established in 1968, providing HVAC, electrical repair, installation and maintenance services for residential homes and commercial businesses. This phasedown ushers in new challenges, with certain states like California, Washington and New York moving faster than federal schedules due to stricter emissions laws.

The contractor perspective isn’t just about swapping refrigerants; it’s a complete overhaul in equipment and safety protocols. “There are no simple component swaps,” Kimball says. “When evaporators or compressors fail, usually the entire system must be replaced.” He highlights that safety is paramount, especially as R32 and R454B are mildly flammable refrigerants requiring new leak detection sensors, shutdown systems and

blower fans for dissipation. He also alerts contractors to expect equipment prices to rise about 20%, driven by necessary electrical redesigns and safety features compared to the usual 7% metal cost increases. “These extra costs reflect the complexity of redesigning indoor and outdoor components to meet new safety labeling and risk-of-fire protocols,” Kimball says.

TRAINING AND TOOLS: A NEW PLAYBOOK

Kimball stresses that the transition demands new tooling and enhanced training. “We still use recovery machines, vacuum pumps and leak detection tools like before, but continuing education is key since there isn’t an EPA A2L certification yet,” he says. Contractors must maintain their EPA 608 licenses but are encouraged to deepen their expertise through ongoing education.

Job site testing is more involved as well, with fire-offs, nitrogen sweeps and pressure testing becoming part of the normal procedure. “Leaks are even bigger setbacks now due to the flammability concerns,” Kimball warns.

Navigating safety codes and building requirements around A2L refrigerants presents a steep learning curve. Kimball acknowledges this is “a complex topic, highly technical and evolving beyond my core expertise,” but urges contractors to stay informed. Mechanical room ventilation, refrigerant alarm systems and compliance with new truck refrigerant load limits (maximum 225 pounds per vehicle) are just some of the heightened safety protocols.

New storage rules are coming, too. Cylinders holding A2L refrigerants must be kept outside offices and shops, with record-keeping thresholds lowered from 50 pounds to 15 pounds starting in 2028. “Updated labeling and safety protocols will be necessary across all equipment,” he says.

As far as customers are concerned, Kimball addressed the changes in a blog on his website, explaining what the shift means, how costs may differ and what customers can do based on the types of existing systems they have. Transparency keeps communication lines open with customers and helps to answer any questions or concerns they have, he says.

While Kimball doesn’t claim to have all the answers, particularly on chillers and VRF systems, he encourages an open exchange of knowledge in the industry. Collective expertise will be vital as contractors face these

transitions.

His message is clear: adapt early, train continuously and prioritize safety to thrive in the era of A2L refrigerants.

Published: January 12, 2026

SMACNews November/December 2025

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