How the 2026 Refrigerant Changes Will Affect HVAC Systems

When the time arrives to replace your air conditioner, you’ll need to consider the type of refrigerant your new unit will use. Since the standard refrigerant (R-410A) no longer meets the requirements of California law, you might even choose to replace your AC sooner than you expected.

This guide will help you understand the recent changes and how they might affect your decision.

The R-410A Sell-Through Period Is Over

Throughout 2025, HVAC companies could still sell and install older models that used the R-410A refrigerant. That sell-through period ended in January of this year.

The 2026 HVAC refrigerant changes for California homeowners mean those older models are no longer available. Consequently, you’ll need a model that uses a refrigerant with a lower GWP (global warming potential).

There’s a Limited Availability of R-410A

Although the 2026 HVAC refrigerant changes for California homeowners won’t force you to get rid of your current unit, you may want to consider doing so.

If your unit develops a leak, you might find it difficult to buy R-410A refrigerant for your model. That’s because production of R-410A has dropped by 40% in California. That production rate will gradually drop by 85% to meet the 2036 requirements.

There’s an Updated Standard in California Building Codes

Passed in 2025, California Title 24 requires higher-efficiency HVAC systems for new construction. In order to meet those standards, most builders will install high-efficiency heat pumps instead of traditional HVAC systems.

Heat pumps and other high-efficiency systems use R-454B or R-32 as the modern standard refrigerant types. R-454B has the lowest GWP (466) and improves energy efficiency by 8%–10%. R-32 also has a low GWP (675) and improves efficiency by 10%–12% overall.

Get Expert Help to Comply With the 2026 HVAC Refrigerant Changes for California Homeowners

When you reach out to Mercury Heating & Air, we’ll help you choose a suitable air conditioner replacement. In addition to ensuring that your replacement unit meets California’s new refrigerant requirements, we’ll verify that it offers sufficient cooling power for your home.



Our maintenance and repair services can significantly extend the lifespan of your cooling system. Contact us today to request an estimate!