Prepare Your HVAC Business: What to Expect for Winter 2025-26

EPA’s Proposed Refrigerant Rule Changes: What Do They Mean for You?

Update EPA’s Proposed Changes: What Are They? On September 30, 2025, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) introduced significant proposals to amend its Technology Transitions Rule (TTR) in light of growing concerns regarding climate change and the challenges faced by various industries, including small businesses in the food retail sector. These proposed changes aim to extend compliance deadlines by several years, allowing industries to catch up with the transition to lower global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants. Understanding the Impacts on the HVAC Industry The HVAC sector, crucial to climate control and energy efficiency, stands at the forefront of this discussion. The original TTR established stringent GWP limits for refrigerants, primarily to reduce high-GWP hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) like R-410A, which has been notorious for its substantial environmental impact. The proposal seeks to raise interim GWP limits to 1,400 for new systems, relaxing the regulations that many in the industry have diligently prepared for since 2023. Potential Benefits and Challenges While extending deadlines may seem advantageous for small grocers and businesses adapting to these regulations, it may create unintended consequences, such as potential refrigerant shortages. The industry’s transition to lower-GWP alternatives, like R-448A/R-449A, could be jeopardized if demand significantly exceeds available supplies due to these delays. Furthermore, the fears of not just regulatory compliance but also financial sustainability loom large; building new systems to accommodate higher GWP refrigerants may lead to stranded assets as the world increasingly pivots toward stringent climate goals. Despite these hurdles, stakeholders emphasize the importance of remaining innovative and prioritize user-friendly approaches that encourage investment in environmentally sound technologies. A Call for Industry Feedback The EPA’s proposal invites commentary from stakeholders until November 17, giving the industry a platform to voice its opinions on these significant regulatory changes. Many have already started to adapt to the upcoming compliance deadlines, suggesting a flood of lower-GWP equipment poised for market release from 2026 onwards. But will this well-intentioned extension lead to confusion and undermine the very progress that has been made over the past few years? Engaging in Sustainable Practices Ultimately, the dialogue surrounding the EPA’s refrigerant regulations highlights a broader cultural shift towards sustainability in the HVAC industry. It’s crucial to engage not only in the compliance process but to reflect on the underlying goal: reducing our environmental footprint and leading the way in energy efficiency. Organizations like Copeland argue that the industry has already made headway in sustainability through a commitment to lower-GWP alternatives, thus positioning themselves for long-term success despite regulatory ambiguities. What Comes Next? As homeowners and businesses navigate these changes, the emphasis on energy efficiency should remain a priority. Transitioning from traditional high-GWP refrigerants to more environmentally responsible options can lead to cost savings and a reduced carbon footprint. It's a win-win situation for both the planet and the economy. Knowledge is power while preparing for EPA regulations; staying informed and proactive can ease the transition into this new regulatory landscape.