A2L Refrigerant Transition Checker
Pick the job, the system and the refrigerant. You get a checklist where every line cites EPA or the eCFR, with the date we checked it.
Reference only. Follow EPA rules, local codes and your AHJ, the equipment manufacturer's instructions, and your training. Not a substitute for A2L safety training.
The rules in brief
- GWP 700 limit, split and packaged systems: effective January 1, 2025, no new residential or light commercial AC or heat pump system may be installed with an HFC of GWP 700 or more, unless all specified components were manufactured or imported before January 1, 2025 (40 CFR 84.54(c)(1)).
- VRF: effective January 1, 2026, with the component and building-permit exceptions in 84.54(c)(2).
- GWPs on EPA's SNAP list: R-410A 2,090 (A1); HFC-32 675 (A2L); R-454B 470 (A2L). HFC-32 and R-454B are listed for new equipment only, with use conditions (EPA SNAP).
- Repairs: existing systems can be maintained and repaired through their useful life; replacing both the condensing unit and indoor coil is a new system (EPA FAQ).
- Section 608 certification applies to all four refrigerants here (40 CFR 82.161).
Last verified Oct 18, 2026. EPA's FAQ page still mentions a January 1, 2026 date for some systems; the regulation text quoted above is current to Oct 15, 2026 and controls where they differ.
Sources
- 40 CFR 84.54 · 82.161 · 82.152 · 82.154 (eCFR, current to Oct 15, 2026)
- EPA SNAP: Residential and Light Commercial AC and Heat Pumps
- EPA: Frequent Questions on the Phasedown of HFCs · EPA: Technology Transitions
- EPA: HCFC phaseout schedule · EPA: 608 technician resources
- AHRI A2L building code map · ACCA A2L training · ESCO practice exams