What Houston Homeowners Need To Know
As of 2025, the air conditioning industry is officially in a new era — and many Houston homeowners are starting to feel the effects. The EPA’s refrigerant regulations have kicked in, which means most new AC systems now use R-454B refrigerant instead of the older R-410A (sometimes called Freon).
At House Pro Air Conditioning, we’ve been getting a lot of calls from Houston homeowners with questions like:
- “Can I still recharge my old AC with freon?”
- “Does this mean I have to replace my air conditioner right now?”
- “What happens if I have an AC refrigerant leak?”
Let’s break down what the 2025 refrigerant change means for you and your home AC system here in Houston.
Why Did AC Refrigerant Change To R-454B?
The short answer? Environmental regulations.
R-410A refrigerant, commonly used in home AC systems for the past 20+ years, has a higher Global Warming Potential (GWP) than the new R-454B refrigerant. As part of a national phase-down of older refrigerants, AC manufacturers are now required to produce new systems that use the more environmentally-friendly R-454B.
Here in Houston — where surviving the brutal summer heat requires reliable AC — this change affects homeowners in a few important ways.
If I Live In Houston, What Does This Mean For My Current AC?
1. You Don’t Have To Replace Your AC Right Away
If your current AC system uses R-410A, it’s still perfectly legal to use and repair — for now. However, this refrigerant change will impact repair costs and future decisions.
2. Freon Prices Are Already Going Up
As supplies of R-410A dwindle, the cost of an AC freon recharge is rising — especially during peak demand in hot, humid Houston summers.
3. AC Refrigerant Leaks Are More Expensive
If your system develops an AC refrigerant leak, repairs will cost more because R-410A is becoming harder to source.
4. R-410A and R-454B Are Not Interchangeable
R-454B refrigerant cannot be used in older R-410A systems. If you’re installing a new AC unit in 2025 or beyond, it will likely use R-454B.
Should Houston Homeowners Repair Or Replace Their AC In 2025?
If your AC is 10-15 years old or you’ve dealt with multiple refrigerant leaks, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to upgrade to a new R-454B system. But if your current system is in good condition, repairs are still an option — just know that freon costs will continue to rise.
What Should You Do Now?
1. Schedule A System Check-Up
At House Pro Air Conditioning, we recommend a full AC inspection — especially before Houston’s summer heat hits hard.
2. Plan Ahead For AC Replacement
Even if you’re not ready to replace your system today, knowing your options (and budget) ahead of time can save you stress later.
3. Ask Us About R-454B Systems
We’re already installing next-generation, R-454B-compatible systems for Houston homeowners looking to future-proof their comfort.
FAQs For Houston Homeowners About The 2025 AC Refrigerant Change
- Can I still get a Freon recharge in 2025? Yes — but expect prices to be higher and supplies to become more limited over time.
- What if I have an AC refrigerant leak? Leaks in older R-410A systems can still be repaired, but costs may be significant. We’ll always give you honest advice about whether repair or replacement is the smarter move.
- Is it worth upgrading to an R-454B system? If your system is older, inefficient or leaking refrigerant, switching to a new R-454B system could save you money in the long term — plus, these new systems are often more energy efficient.
Here To Help Houston Homeowners Stay Cool — No Matter What Refrigerant You Use
The 2025 AC refrigerant change is here, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At House Pro Air Conditioning, we’re helping homeowners across Houston understand their options, avoid surprise repair costs and stay comfortable year-round.
Whether you need a quick freon recharge, help diagnosing an AC refrigerant leak or are ready to upgrade to a new R-454B system, our team is here for you. Schedule your AC inspection today with House Pro Air Conditioning — Houston’s trusted comfort experts.