HVAC contractors are prepping for a major transition as the industry shifts to low global warming potential (GWP) A2L refrigerants, such as R-454B, for the residential and light commercial sectors. This is not the first refrigerant phaseout the HVAC industry has navigated, as those of us who went through the switch from R-22 to R-410A remember. Speaking from this experience, we know these challenges also bring opportunities.
Embracing this change can position contractors for long-term success. I explain to my teams at Adirondack Heat Pumps and Superior Co-Op HVAC that the shift from 410A is not as drastic as people might fear. The refrigerant is new, and it’s up to us to adapt and educate ourselves and our customers about it.
Getting Ahead Through Training and Tooling
Installing HVAC systems to accommodate low-GWP refrigerants requires specialized knowledge and skills to ensure safe and efficient operation. Contractors will need to invest in new tools, but thanks to online learning and hands-on sessions offered by HVAC manufacturers, the learning curve is manageable. However, contractors must factor in how these added costs may impact their HVAC pricing when considering training and the cost of travel for their teams.
Our partner, Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS), offers self-paced, online classes that cover everything from system updates to safety standards. My team uses these modules to stay informed without disrupting daily operations.
Adam Hickey, the METUS Regional Manager for Tennessee and Georgia, South Business Unit, spent nearly 17 years as an HVAC professional. He was a member of Mitsubishi Electric’s Diamond Contractor® program before joining the company full-time. He underscores the importance of keeping your HVAC team up to date. “Training, training, training,” he said. “Contractors need to learn what’s already out, what’s coming, and what tools they’ll need to stay ahead.”
Adam is right about the need for continuous training. The Diamond Contractor program offers multi-stage, in-depth training that ensures HVAC professionals are kept up to date on equipment, new industry technologies, and installation best practices. I’m an Elite level member of the program, and so are members of my team, which helps us have in-depth knowledge of the all-electric, all-climate heat pump products we install and service.
Communicating Change to Homeowners
One of the most overlooked elements of this refrigerant transition is homeowner education. My team launched a series of blog posts to help customers understand what A2L refrigerants are, how they affect system performance, and why this change matters. Many homeowners aren’t even aware of the shift, so proactive communication is critical.
Hickey agrees: “Contractors should explain the implications to homeowners clearly. This includes what it means for repair costs, efficiency, and more. Plainly spelling out different options to repair, replace, or retrofit equipment – and which refrigerant their system would use in each circumstance – is key.”
Embracing Efficiency, Innovation, and ROI
This transition isn’t just regulatory. It’s a great time to make technological advancements to HVAC systems. For example, Mitsubishi Electric has taken the opportunity to upgrade many of its systems with features that offer clear benefits to homeowners: improved low-temperature performance, wireless comfort control, and increased efficiency.
“The shift gave us the chance to add smart control logic, Wi-Fi control, built-in cleaning modes, and larger capacities for bigger jobs,” Hickey said. “This kind of innovation helps contractors sell the value of all-climate heat pump upgrades more effectively.”
Customers are increasingly drawn to the idea of all-climate heat pump solutions that offer both heating and cooling in a single unit. As colder regions like the Northeast experience hotter summers, demand for air conditioning is growing. Efficiency, high performance, and comfort are becoming just as important as cost.
Adapting To Economics Through Financing and Hybrid Systems
Homeowners are relying more on financing, and that’s shifting how we approach the scope of a project. About 75% of our customers are now financing, versus about 25% a few years ago. Rather than only installing whole-home systems, we now often sell solutions for one or two zones. Both of these options can help homeowners to potentially maximize on available tax credits.
The hybrid approach of installing heat pumps alongside existing oil or propane systems is gaining traction too, especially with grant-backed projects for municipal buildings.
It is vital during this refrigerant transition to continue to support customers with financial guidance and access to government and utility incentives.
Seizing The Opportunity
The 2025 refrigerant transition isn’t just a compliance issue. It’s also an opportunity for contractors to lead with excellence. By staying informed, investing in training, educating homeowners, and embracing technology, contractors can not only survive the shift but also come out ahead.