You use your air conditioning (AC) system to keep cool during the hottest weather. But what makes the air cold when it's hot inside? Refrigerant is the secret sauce running through your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, drawing out the heat and giving you cold air.

While refrigerants perform the same basic job, they're not all created equal. R-32 and R-454B refrigerants are the next generation of coolants coming to the air conditioning world. With new regulations affecting refrigerant use, it's important to know how these options perform. As older refrigerants get phased out, homeowners and contractors should compare R-32 and R-454B to find the best fit for their needs.

What Is R-32 Refrigerant?

R-32 refrigerant is a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) gas known for its lower global warming potential (GWP). GWP compares the amount of heat another gas traps in the atmosphere with CO2. Gases with lower GWP ratings are better for the environment. R-32's GWP of 675 is much lower than the standard refrigerant, R-410A's, GWP of 2,000. It's an energy-efficient option for air conditioners, making your AC more effective without hiking up energy costs.

R-32 is also a single-component refrigerant — difluoromethane only — which means it's easy to recycle and handle. While R-32 is highly efficient, it's also mildly flammable. But don't worry — modern HVAC systems are designed to manage that safely.

What Is R-454B Refrigerant?

R-454B is another eco-friendly refrigerant alternative to R-410A. It's a newer product that combines the R-32 and R-1234yf refrigerants. With an extremely low GWP of 466, it's one of the most eco-conscious options on the market. 

R-454B, like R-32 and other alternatives, is designed to replace non-compliant refrigerants going forward. While it's not a replacement in systems that use other refrigerants, manufacturers will switch to using these refrigerants in their products. R-454B is more energy-efficient than older refrigerants, which can mean lower energy consumption and costs for users. As a blend refrigerant, it's also stable for long-term use.

R-32 vs. R-454B: How Do Their Properties Compare?

Keeping these refrigerants straight can be challenging. How do you know which one will work best for your needs? Let's break down the differences between R-32 and R-454B refrigerant to understand them better:

• Chemical composition: Because R-32 is a single-component refrigerant, it's easy to manage, recycle and refill. R-454B is a blend of R-32 and R-1234yf, which gives it better stability and performance.
• ODP: R-32 and R-454B have an ozone depletion potential (ODP) of zero. Neither refrigerant will damage the ozone layer.
• GWP: R-32's GWP is 675, while R-454B's is 466. R-454B is just a little better for reducing global warming.
• Flammability: Both R-32 and R-454B are classified as A2L refrigerants. This classification means they're mildly flammable but still less flammable than other refrigerants.
• Cooling efficiency: R-32 delivers a slightly higher cooling capacity than R-454B, but there is a small difference.
• Energy efficiency: Both refrigerants are more energy-efficient than R-410A.
• Compatibility: Neither refrigerant is a drop-in replacement for R-410A. While R-454B is similar to R-410A, you'll need an R-454B-compatible system to use it.

How Do You Transition From R-410A Refrigerant?

Switching from R-410A to R-32 or R-454B is easier than you might think. With some planning, you can transition refrigerants and enjoy sustainable cooling. Follow these tips to get the right refrigerant for your unit:

1. Assess your system: Look at your current HVAC system's manual or label. It should tell you what refrigerant it uses. Units designed for R-410A should not have R-32 put in.
2. Get a professional: Need help identifying which refrigerant you need? Contact a qualified HVAC technician. They'll help you determine which refrigerant you need.
3. Upgrade your unit: With a professional's help, you can proceed with your repair. While retrofitting may seem less expensive initially, refrigerants are seeing increasing legislation. It might be more cost-effective to upgrade to a lower-GWP refrigerant unit now instead of paying for the least expensive option. You'll get more life out of your unit and avoid excess spending.

Find the Right Refrigerant and Equipment With Ingrams Water & Air

If you're considering switching to more efficient refrigerants, Ingrams Water & Air can help. We've been in the online retail game since 2000, making sure customers like you get the best solution for their home comfort. Explore our heating and cooling products and get the energy efficiency you've been looking for.

Our expert team offers personalized advice and technical support to help you make the right choice. Whether you're shopping for HVAC, indoor air quality or geothermal products, we offer price matching and fast shipping. At Ingrams Water & Air, your satisfaction is our priority. Upgrade your systems today with solutions from our extensive selection!