A2L
What is A2L and why should I care?
A2L is an HVAC refrigerant with similar characteristics to legacy refrigerants but is safer to use than ammonia and hydrocarbon refrigerants. It is more energy efficient than R-410A and replaces HFC and HCFC refrigerants. A2L refrigerants have lower flammability, so they are safer for handling and more stable for storage and transport. They are also eco friendly, given that they can reduce global warming potential (GWP) levels by up to 90 percent.
By 2030 
, traditional HFC and HCFC refrigerants will no longer be available.
What are the differences between A2L, A2, and A3 refrigerants?
A1 refrigerants, such as R-410A which was used in systems manufactured prior to January, 1,2025, have low toxicity and no flame propagation.
A2L refrigerants, such as R32 and R-454B which are used in system manufactured January 1, 2025 or later, have low toxicity and lower flammability.
A3 refrigerants, such as R-290 and R-600a which are found in refrigerators, have low toxicity but higher flammability.
What does global warming potential (GWP) have to do with my HVAC system?
GWP is a measure of the impact of a Refrigerant compared to Carbon Dioxide (CO2) For example, one pound of a greenhouse gas with a GWP of 700 has an impact on the climate that is 700 times stronger than one pound of CO2, which has a GWP of 1. The new refrigerants that equipment is designed to use have lower GWP values than legacy refrigerants.
Can A2L be added to my existing HVAC system?
No, equipment should only be used with the refrigerant for which it is designed.
How safe are A2L refrigerants?
It is more difficult to ignite A2L refrigerants and sustain a flame with A2L refrigerants than highly flammable refrigerants like HFCs.
How efficient are A2L refrigerants?
A2L refrigerants are up to 12 percent more efficient than comparable R-410A systems.
How often is A2L used in HVAC systems around the world?
A2L has been used in cars since 2017; more than 80 percent of new vehicles sold in the US today have an A2L refrigerant. To date, more than 230 million air conditioners in more than 130 countries using A2L refrigerants have been installed around the world.
How new are A2L refrigerants?
The first US automobile using an A2L refrigerant came out in 2013; as of 2022 95% of new cars being manufactured for sale in the US use an A2L refrigerant for their air conditioning. To date, more than 230 million air conditioners in more than 130 countries using A2L refrigerants have been installed.
What does A2L mean for equipment design?
Systems designed to use an A2L refrigerant will have sealed electrical components, and leak detection and mitigation parts included.
Are there different “flavors” or proprietary blends of A2L refrigerants?
There are no proprietary blends; however, some examples of A2L refrigerants include: R-32, R-454B, R-454A, R-454C, R-1234YF.
Systems
Why choose a mini-split system?
Energy efficient, flexible installation options and safety are all great reasons to choose a mini-split system. These systems deliver control over your interior climate needs with versatility, quick installation (vs. ducted systems), and greater safety than portable electric heaters. Given their size and portability, they are quicker to install than traditional whole home ducted systems. As a result of their design, they allow management of each individual room. Choosing a mini-split system vs. a ducted system depends on your climate needs, your home's structure, and whether you have an existing system with ductwork.
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What is the difference between an air conditioner and a heat pump?
To cool your home's interior, an air conditioner removes heat and humidity from indoor air and sends it outside, while a heat pump is a part of the HVAC system that can both heat and cool your home. Heat pumps use refrigerant to absorb, transport, and release heat, and they can reverse the flow of that refrigerant with a valve (which an air conditioner cannot do), depending on whether heating or cooling is needed. Heat pumps are powered by electricity vs. fossil fuels. To decrease or maintain the carbon footprint, modern heat pumps perform well in nearly all climates.
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Is an upgrade from PSC to ECM worth it?
Upgrading from a Permanent Split Capacitor (PSC) motor to ECM (Electronically Commutated Motor) in a furnace or air handler could lead to a decrease in energy bills, uneven heating or cooling, and noise from your HVAC system. PSC motors either turn on or turn off, operating at one speed and are not able to adjust for static pressure (resistance in your HVAC system caused by duct sizing, dirty filters and other issues). Upgrading to an ECM motor could be an energy efficient way to maximize proper airflow and IAQ equipment (Indoor Air Quality). Find your local dealer and discuss which option is right for your home.
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What financing options are available for my new HVAC system?
Looking for financial assistance for your new system? FTL Finance provides consumer financing solutions based on your individual project needs and financial situation, not just your credit score.
Installation
How does insulation help HVAC?
According to ENERGY STAR, 20 to 30% of air from the duct system is lost because of leaks and holes. Even more, ducting that's either uninsulated or running through unconditioned spaces can lose up to 32% of its effectiveness. This means your system has to work harder to deliver comfort. However, insulation can significantly reduce heat loss in ducts. For example, a 100-degree basement temperature with a 70-degree supply air temperature can result in a 55-degree temperature difference, causing substantial heat loss from the uninsulated duct into the basement. Insulation can typically reduce energy losses by 90% and help ensure proper steam pressure for plant equipment.
Maintenance
Why bother cleaning my coils?
Your HVAC system uses a series of coils to heat and cool your home. One of those coils is located outside your home and is called the condenser coil. With an outside location, it can get dirty with dust and debris. A dirty condenser coil can reduce its capacity by more than 30% and increase its energy usage by more than 37%.
For example, a three-ton system with a dirty condenser coil is like running a two-ton system, which costs a lot more in energy. The coil inside your home is called the evaporator coil. It absorbs the heat inside your home and also can get dirty, which hinders your HVAC system's performance. That means higher energy bills. Depending on your home's humidity, effects from pollution and pollen, and how dusty your home is, you may need to clean your evaporator coil as well. A best practice is to clean your coils at least annually for optimal HVAC maintenance.
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What should you know about IAQ?
Indoor air quality, or IAQ, refers to how clean, comfortable, and healthy the air inside your home is. Many homeowners are not aware of how much indoor air can affect their health, comfort, and even the efficiency of their home. Factors like temperature, humidity, dust, mold, odors, and ventilation all play a role. When these are not in balance, it can lead to issues like dry skin, allergies, musty smells, or poor airflow. Improving your indoor air is one of the best ways to support your family’s well-being and protect your home.
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What are the benefits of upgrading to a smart thermostat?
The thermostat is the primary touchpoint for most homeowners' HVAC systems. Many homeowners are switching to smart thermostats for an integrated home environment. With a touch of a button on their smartphone, homeowners can control their HVAC systems whether they are home or not. Smart thermostats offer many fantastic benefits for homeowners such as energy efficiency, money savings, greater control over their HVAC systems, sustainability and environmental considerations, and comfort. There are eco functions that limit system operations based on time of day, sensors that factor direct sunlight on the thermostat for running the system, and snapshot reports on energy consumption. The benefits of upgrading to a smart thermostat are numerous, and it is simple to install, with the help of a technician.
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What is surge protection for HVAC and why get it?
About 25 million lightning strikes hit the United States each year. If one of these strikes your home, it can do extensive damage to vital electrical components. When lightning hits a power line, a spike of over 100,000 volts can occur and burn through wiring insulation and cause fires—even modest spikes can destroy a wide variety of electronic devices. In the US, the national average cost of an HVAC system is $8,000 but can range anywhere from $5,000 to $30,000 depending on the brand, size, and features. The HVAC system is often the most expensive electrical device in a home, and power surges can damage or destroy your HVAC system. Adding surge protection to your HVAC system is a wise investment.
