Everything You Need to Know About A2L Refrigerants

Key Takeaways

• A2L refrigerants are becoming the new industry standard due to lower toxicity, reduced flammability, and a much lower global warming potential compared to older refrigerants like R-410A.

• Sales of A2L-equipped HVAC systems have grown rapidly, already making up over 50% of distributor sales in 2025.

• Common A2L refrigerants include R-32, R-452B, R-454B, and R-455A, with R-454B seeing especially fast adoption.

• New HVAC systems are increasingly designed to run on A2L refrigerants; older systems may not be compatible.

• While A2L refrigerants require different handling precautions, most licensed HVAC technicians are already qualified, with many receiving additional A2L-specific training.

• Mint Home stays current with evolving industry standards to ensure safe, efficient A2L installations for homeowners looking for eco-friendly HVAC solutions.

If you are planning to replace or upgrade your HVAC system you may be hearing a lot about A2L refrigerants. These next-generation refrigerants are quickly becoming the new industry standard thanks to their lower environmental impact, improved efficiency, and regulatory changes. But what exactly is an A2L refrigerant, and why is it showing up in so many new systems? Here’s everything you need to know about an A2L refrigerant.

What is A2L Refrigerant?

A2L refrigerants are classified based on two key safety factors:

• A: Low toxicity
• 2L: Lower flammability (the “L” stands for “lower” flammability compared to full Class 2 refrigerants)

This makes A2L refrigerants both safer and more ecofriendly compared to older refrigerants like R-410A or R-22, which have higher global warming potential (GWP) and are being phased out under new regulations.

The Rapid Growth of A2L Refrigerants

The HVAC industry is transitioning toward A2L refrigerants faster than anticipated. According to recent data from HARDI reported by Homepros in June 2025, central ducted systems using A2L refrigerants accounted for 51% of distributor sales as of April 2025, up from less than 5% just six months prior. Preliminary data suggests May sales may have already reached 60%. Major manufacturers like Lennox, Carrier, and Trane are seeing A2L equipment make up 50% to over 75% of their total sales. In short: the A2L refrigerant transition isn’t on the way, it’s already here.

Why Is the Industry Switching to A2L?

The primary driver behind the switch is environmental regulation. Older refrigerants like R-410A contribute heavily to greenhouse gas emissions. A2L refrigerants offer:

• Lower Global Warming Potential (GWP)
• Compliance with federal and state environmental standards
• Improved system efficiency when properly installed

A2L Refrigerant List

Several refrigerants fall into the A2L refrigerant category. The most common options you will run into are:

• R-32
• R-452B
• R-454B (rapidly becoming one of the most widely used refrigerants)
• R-455A

Different manufacturers may favor certain A2L refrigerants based on system design and efficiency goals.

What This Means for Homeowners

If you’re shopping for a new HVAC system, there’s a strong chance your equipment will use an A2L refrigerant. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• A2L refrigerants help reduce your carbon footprint
• Older systems may not be compatible. If you want an A2L compatible system you will need to look at newer HVAC models
• Systems must be installed by certified professionals for safety and compliance
• Expect more widespread availability as manufacturers phase out older refrigerants

Working with A2L Refrigerants: Training and Safety

While A2L refrigerants introduce different handling considerations due to their mild flammability, most licensed HVAC technicians are already qualified to work with them under existing EPA 608 certifications. However, many manufacturers and industry groups offer additional A2L-specific training to help technicians stay up to date on best practices, especially around safe transport, storage, leak detection, and system charging. As a homeowner, it’s always a good idea to work with a contractor who is familiar with A2L systems and stays current on evolving safety guidelines as the industry continues to adopt these new refrigerants. At Mint Home we make sure all of our technicians are up to date with current safety practices to ensure every aspect of your installation goes smoothly.

The Future of HVAC Is A2L

With sales of A2L refrigerant systems already surpassing 50% of the market share, and some manufacturers reporting even higher adoption, it’s clear that A2L refrigerants are becoming the new industry standard. At Mint Home we make sure to stay up to date with the latest changes in the industry so our customers have the option to choose the latest, most efficient, and environmentally responsible solutions for their homes.

If you are ready to switch to a more efficient and environmentally friendly A2L system, get an instant quote today!

Want to learn more about the 2025 refrigerant changes? Read our blog that walks through all of the changes and phase outs here.