Different Types Of AC Refrigerant Explained

Published: 06 Jun 2025

Did you know the type of refrigerant inside your air conditioner could affect your cooling costs, system performance, and even the environment? If your AC isn’t working like it used to—or if you’re hearing terms like “R-22 phase-out” or “R-410A ban”—you’re not alone in feeling confused. Many homeowners don’t realize the importance of choosing the right refrigerant in terms of energy efficiency and future repairs.

Whether you’re upgrading your system, troubleshooting cooling problems, or want to stay ahead of HVAC changes, this guide will walk you through the most common types of AC refrigerants and how they affect your system. Let’s clear the air—literally.

Table of Content

What Is Refrigerant and Why Does It Matter in Your AC?
Five Types of AC Refrigerants
New & Future-Focused Refrigerant Types
1. HFOs (Hydrofluoroolefins) – Next-Gen, Ultra-Low GWP
2. R-290 (Propane) & CO₂ (R-744) – Used in Green Commercial Systems
How to Tell What Refrigerant Your AC Uses
Can You Switch Refrigerants?
Conclusion

What Is Refrigerant and Why Does It Matter in Your AC?

Refrigerant is the special fluid inside your air conditioner that enables cooling. It works by absorbing heat from the air inside your home and moving it outside. As it cycles through your system, it changes between liquid and gas to help your AC create that refreshing, cool air.

Why does this matter? Because the type of refrigerant your system uses affects how well it works, how much energy it uses, and how eco-friendly it is. Some older refrigerants, like R-22 (Freon), harm the environment and are now being phased out. Newer ones, such as R-410A and R-32, are designed to cool more efficiently with a reduced environmental impact.

In short, the correct refrigerant means lower bills, better cooling, and a cleaner conscience.

Five Types of AC Refrigerants

AC refrigerants play a significant role in efficiently cooling your home. Some are outdated and harmful to the environment, while others are newer and more eco-friendly. Here is a breakdown of the most common types that are still in use or have recently been phased out.

1. R-22 (Freon) – Old and Phased Out

R-22, also known as Freon, was once the standard refrigerant in older air conditioning systems. However, it harms the ozone layer and was officially banned from production in the U.S. in 2020. It’s still available in small amounts through recycling, but if your system uses it, repairs can be expensive, and replacements are limited.

2. R-410A (Puron) – Being Phased Out

R-410A replaced R-22 in newer AC systems after 2010. It doesn’t damage the ozone layer like R-22, but it does contribute to global warming. The EPA is phasing it out starting in 2025 under new environmental guidelines. It’s still used today and available for servicing older units.

3. R-454B – The New Standard on the Rise

R-454B is the next-generation refrigerant replacing R-410A. It has a much lower global warming potential (GWP) and better energy efficiency. Starting in 2025, many new AC systems will be built to run on R-454B. However, it can’t be used in older systems designed for R-410A.

4. R-32 – High Efficiency, Low Impact

R-32 is a newer refrigerant used in some modern units and is also a key part of the R-454B blend. It boasts strong cooling performance and a lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) than older options. It’s mildly flammable but considered safe when handled properly, and it’s already common in countries like Japan and India.

5. R-134a – Still Found in Some Systems

R-134a is a popular refrigerant primarily used in automotive and small air conditioning applications. It doesn’t deplete the ozone layer and has a moderate environmental impact. While not the top choice for new home systems, it’s still in use globally and considered a safer alternative to R-22.

New & Future-Focused Refrigerant Types

As older refrigerants get phased out, the HVAC industry is moving toward cleaner, safer, and more efficient alternatives. These next-gen refrigerants are designed to meet environmental standards without sacrificing performance.

1. HFOs (Hydrofluoroolefins) – Next-Gen, Ultra-Low GWP

HFOs are the latest class of refrigerants built for the future. They have ultra-low global warming potential (GWP) and break down quickly in the atmosphere. One of the most common HFOs is R-1234yf, which is now used in many cars and is being tested for long-term use in residential systems.

2. R-290 (Propane) & CO₂ (R-744) – Used in Green Commercial Systems

R-290 (propane) and R-744 (carbon dioxide) are natural refrigerants gaining attention for their low environmental impact. They’re already used in commercial settings like supermarkets and large buildings. While not yet common in homes due to safety and equipment design concerns, these options indicate where the industry is headed.

Environmental regulations are becoming increasingly stringent, and the demand for climate-resilient cooling is skyrocketing. As homeowners, staying informed about these options means you’ll be ready for greener upgrades when it’s time to replace your AC system.

How to Tell What Refrigerant Your AC Uses

What refrigerant is in your AC? You don’t need to be a pro to figure it out—check a few simple things around your unit.

Manufacturer Label Check

Look for a sticker or metal plate on the side of your outdoor unit. This label lists the refrigerant type—such as R-22, R-410A, or R-32—along with other details, including model number and charge amount. It’s the quickest way to confirm what your system uses.

Manual and Installation Year Clues

If you still have your user manual, check the specifications section. You can also go by the installation year:

Units before 2010 often used R-22
Units from 2010 to 2024 are likely to use R-410A
Newer systems (2025 onward) may use R-454B or R-32

Visual Cues (Color Coding – Missed by Competitors)

Some refrigerant lines or canisters have color-coded caps or tags:

Light blue or pink for R-410A
Green for R-22
Light blue with red stripe for R-32

While not always reliable, these color hints can give you a quick clue when labels are missing or worn out. Need help confirming or planning a switch? Ask your HVAC tech during your next tune-up—they can guide you based on what’s allowed and what performs best for your system.

Can You Switch Refrigerants?

Thinking of swapping out your AC’s refrigerant to something newer or more eco-friendly? It’s not as simple as draining one and adding another. Here’s what you need to know before making any changes.

1. Compatibility Risks

Not all refrigerants work with all systems. For example, R-22 systems can’t handle R-410A—the pressures are too different, and using the wrong refrigerant can seriously damage your AC. Even newer types, such as R-454B or R-32, require specific components designed to handle them.

2. Legal and Technical Concerns

In many cases, it’s illegal to mix or switch refrigerants without following EPA guidelines. Additionally, some refrigerants require updated safety protocols, such as improved ventilation or the use of alternative oil types within the compressor. Trying to DIY this can lead to leaks, breakdowns, or even fire hazards with mildly flammable types.

3. Always Call a Licensed HVAC Pro

If you’re thinking about switching refrigerants—or even wondering if it’s worth it—talk to a licensed HVAC technician first. They’ll inspect your unit, check compatibility, and let you know if a complete system upgrade is more innovative and more cost-effective in the long run.

Conclusion

The refrigerant in your AC isn’t just a detail—it affects everything from your home’s comfort and energy bills to your system’s lifespan and environmental impact. With older options like R-22 and R-410A on their way out and new standards like R-454B and R-32 taking their place, it’s more important than ever to know what’s inside your system.

If your AC isn’t cooling as well as it used to or you’re considering a replacement, consult a licensed HVAC professional. Staying informed now means smarter upgrades, fewer surprises, and a more efficient home tomorrow.

What type of refrigerant does my AC use?

You can usually find the refrigerant type on a label attached to the outdoor unit. It might list something like R-22, R-410A, or R-32. If the label isn’t clear, check your AC manual or ask an HVAC technician to confirm.

Is R-32 better than R-410A?

Yes, in many ways. R-32 has a lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) than R-410A and is more energy-efficient. It’s becoming a preferred choice for newer air conditioners due to its environmental and performance advantages.

What’s the most eco-friendly refrigerant?

HFO refrigerants, such as R-1234yf, and natural options like R-290 (propane) or R-744 (CO₂), are considered the most eco-friendly. They have extremely low GWPs and don’t harm the ozone layer, but they’re mainly used in specific or commercial systems right now.

Can you use different refrigerants in the same AC?

No. AC systems are built for a specific type of refrigerant. Mixing or swapping refrigerants without making the necessary technical upgrades can damage the system and violate EPA regulations. Always consult a professional before making any changes.