What Is R-454B Refrigerant—and Why It Matters for Your Next HVAC System

When it comes to staying comfortable in your home, refrigerant plays a crucial role in your air conditioning and heat pump systems. But not all refrigerants are created equal—especially when it comes to energy efficiency and environmental impact.

At SS&B Heating & Cooling, we believe homeowners in Springfield, MO, and surrounding areas should be informed about the newest changes in HVAC technology. One of the most important updates happening right now? The shift to R-454B refrigerant.

First Things First: What Is Refrigerant?

Refrigerant is the fluid that flows through your HVAC system’s refrigerant lines, allowing it to cool or heat your home. It works by absorbing heat from indoor air, turning from a liquid to a gas, then cycling back to a liquid as it releases that heat outside.

This chemical process is what makes modern air conditioning and heat pump systems so effective—but traditional refrigerants have come with environmental costs.

The Problem with Older Refrigerants

For decades, HVAC systems used refrigerants like R-22 (Freon) or R-410A. While these were effective in heating and cooling, they had major downsides.

R-22 contains hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which harm the ozone layer.
R-410A, while safer for the ozone, is a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) with a high Global Warming Potential (GWP).

Because of their environmental impact, both have been or are being phased out. R-22 was officially phased out in 2020, and now R-410A is next, as part of the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act. This new law supports the gradual phase-down of high-GWP refrigerants in favor of cleaner, more sustainable alternatives.

What Is R-454B Refrigerant?

R-454B is the next-generation refrigerant designed to replace R-410A in residential and light commercial HVAC systems. It's a blend of two components:

R-32, an HFC
R-1234yf, a hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) with ultra-low GWP

R-454B offers all the performance of previous refrigerants—but with a much smaller environmental footprint. It has:

No ozone depletion potential (ODP)
More than 75% lower GWP than R-410A
Low toxicity and improved energy efficiency

Why Trane and SS&B Are Moving to R-454B

As a trusted Trane Comfort Specialist, SS&B Heating & Cooling is proud to be part of the transition to this cleaner refrigerant. Trane began rolling out R-454B in 2024, starting with select models like the XR15 SEER2 heat pump, which meets the latest efficiency standards.

This shift supports our shared commitment to:
✅ Reducing greenhouse gas emissions
✅ Offering more energy-efficient HVAC systems
✅ Staying ahead of industry changes so you don’t have to

Real-World Results You Can Count On

R-454B isn’t just a theory—it’s been tested in the real world. During the U.S. Department of Energy’s Cold Climate Heat Pump Challenge, systems using R-454B refrigerant showed impressive performance, even in extreme temperatures. That means more comfort and lower energy bills, no matter the season in Southwest Missouri.

What Kind of Refrigerant Is in Your System?

If your system was installed before 2010, chances are it uses R-22. If it was installed between 2010 and early 2024, it likely uses R-410A.

You can confirm this in a few ways:

Look at the outdoor unit’s data plate (usually near the refrigerant lines)
Check your owner’s manual
Ask one of our licensed HVAC techs during your next service visit

Can I Still Service an Older System?

Yes. Even with newer refrigerants being phased in, service is still available for older systems. Licensed HVAC contractors like us can still access stockpiled refrigerants like R-410A or use EPA-approved alternatives for repairs.

That said, if your system is aging or you’re noticing higher energy bills or more frequent repairs, now’s a great time to consider an upgrade—especially to a new R-454B air conditioner or heat pump.

The Future of Home Comfort Starts Here

At SS&B Heating & Cooling, we’re helping Springfield homeowners transition to more efficient, environmentally responsible systems—without sacrificing performance. If you're considering a system replacement or just want to know more about R-454B, we’re happy to answer your questions.

Whether you're building a new home or upgrading your current one, ask us about Trane’s newest R-454B systems and how they can benefit your home today and tomorrow.

Serving Springfield, MO with trusted HVAC solutions for over 55 years.