Global Warming Potential (GWP) is an index to measure how much infrared thermal radiation a greenhouse gas would absorb over a given time frame after it has been added to the atmosphere (or emitted to the atmosphere).

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), under the regulation entitled “Restrictions on the Use of Certain Hydrofluorocarbons Under the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020” (88 FR 73098, October 24, 2023), requires all commercial packaged and commercial splits models manufactured on or after January 1, 2025, to meet new, lower global warming potential (GWP) limits.

The rule allows one additional year, until January 1, 2026, for the installation of new air conditioning and heat pump systems manufactured or imported prior to January 1, 2025 and allows three additional years, until January 1, 2028, for the sale of new packaged air conditioning and heat pump products. Components are exempt from rule prohibitions, allowing manufacturers to continue producing R-410A compressors, condensing units, etc. as long as they are intended for servicing of existing systems. See below for more specifics by product type. Local exceptions may apply, some with more stringent requirements. All are encouraged to visit Rheem.com/HVACKnowZone and / or check with their local authorities to learn more.

Refrigerant

Low-GWP substitutes for air conditioning are mildly flammable, introducing new safety considerations for transportation and storage. While service vehicle placards won’t change, cylinders may need to be transported in an upright position to keep their relief valves in the vapor space. HVAC professionals are advised to check with the refrigerant cylinder manufacturer to confirm the cylinder transport and storage needs for A2L refrigerants.

Equipment

While there’s no change to AC and HP equipment transportation for units with up to 25 lbs. charge, above that HAZMAT shipping or a DOT exemption permit is required. Rheem has been granted a manufacturer special permit, allowing our HVAC products to ship the same as A1 refrigerants. However, an individual exemption permit is required before transporting equipment with more than 25 lbs. of refrigerant where the original packaging has been opened or modified.

The American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act does not preempt state regulations. Some states, such as California and Washington, have regulations that exceed federal mandates—in all cases, the more stringent requirement prevails.

All Rheem Commercial Air products will be transitioned to use R-454B refrigerant with a 100-year GWP of 466 chosen for its chemical / physical properties that align with R-410A—including similar pressure-temperature profiles, comparable thermodynamics and correlating material compatibility.