A new chapter of air conditioning industry
With the continuous tightening of environmental regulations around the world, the air conditioning industry is gradually shifting from traditional high GWP refrigerants to more environmentally friendly low GWP solutions. The R-410A has been a market staple for years - efficient, reliable and easy to operate. However, its GWP value is as high as 2088, which can no longer meet the requirements of sustainable development of future HVAC technology.
Today, two new low-GWP refrigerants, R-32 and R-454B, are redefining the design logic of split unit, multi-network and light commercial air conditioning systems, combining energy efficiency with environmental responsibility.
Comparison of key technical parameters
| Refrigerant | GWP | ODP | ASHRAE Safety Class | Composition | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| R-410A | 2088 | 0 | A1 (Non-flammable) | Blend of R-32 + R-125 | Legacy split / VRF / light commercial systems |
| R-32 | 675 | 0 | A2L (Mildly flammable) | Single component | New-generation residential AC systems |
| R-454B | 466 | 0 | A2L (Mildly flammable) | Blend of R-32 + R-1234yf | Advanced split / multi-split / light commercial units |
System efficiency and performance
In terms of energy efficiency, both R-32 and R-454B significantly outperform older generation refrigerants. R-32 improves heat transfer efficiency by about 20% compared with R-410A and reduces system charging.
The R-454B maintains comparable performance with lower operating pressure and exhaust temperature, ensuring long-term system stability and reliability.
Both of them can improve the SEER/EER energy efficiency of the system, reduce the compressor load, and fully support the current mainstream frequency conversion and speed conversion technology. For multi-line and light commercial models, the R-454B operates more like the R-410A, allowing manufacturers to smoothly transition production lines without a major redesign.
Safety and design considerations
Both R-32 and R-454B are classified as class A2L (slightly flammable) and can be safely used under correct design and operating conditions. Modern systems further reduce potential risks by reducing charging and enhancing leak detection and airflow control.
Compared to the R-32, the R-454B has lower flammability and lower exhaust temperature, making it more suitable for high capacity units (such as roof machines and air duct machines). Compliance with ASHRAE 15/34 standard and local safety regulations ensures a safe and reliable installation and maintenance process.
Market status: The refrigerants currently used in mainstream equipment
In the global air conditioning market, the R-410A remains the most widely used refrigerant in home splitters and light commercial systems. It is stable, efficient, and familiar to installers, but with a GWP of 2088, it has become a key target for phased elimination in North America, the European Union and many emerging markets in the future.
Is it necessary to replace?
There is no immediate mandatory replacement or retrofitting of systems already in operation.However, from 2025-2026, many countries will restrict the production and import of R-410A systems, which means that the supply of parts and refrigerants will gradually become tight and the cost will increase.
In contrast, new systems using R-454B or R-32 are already fully compliant with the next generation of energy efficiency and environmental standards, resulting in greater long-term value for users and policy compliance.
Cost Comparison: Short-term Investment vs. Long-term Returns
Short-term: Upgrading to an R-454B system may result in an approximately 3-8% increase in equipment costs, primarily due to new components and safety certifications.
Long-term: The R-454B system reduces maintenance costs, improves energy efficiency, maintains regulatory compliance, and typically pays for itself within a few years.
Although the continued use of old refrigerants can save money in the short term, it will face higher energy consumption, parts shortages, increased maintenance difficulties, and even limited use due to non-compliance with regulations.
Why has R-454B become the next-generation standard in the industry？
With the balance of low GWP, high energy efficiency, system compatibility and safety, R-454B is gradually becoming the new standard refrigerant for household and light commercial air conditioners around the world. It allows manufacturers to retain the original R-410A system architecture and significantly improve environmental performance without significantly modifying the design, while reducing redesign and training costs.
In other words, R-454B bridges the gap between "regulatory compliance" and "performance utility," laying the foundation for the next decade of HVAC development.
ZERO's Innovation Path
At ZERO, we're always looking forward to the standards of the future.
Mini split units: Z-PRO series, Z-MAX series, Z-FREE series
Multi split units: Multi-Split R454B Series
Light commercial units: Top discharge LCAC, Side discharge LCAC
These air conditioner series have been fully optimized for R-454B refrigerant to:
- High efficiency DC variable frequency compressor
- Optimized refrigerant flow path matching with the system
- It still runs stably under high temperature conditions
- Full distance technology and after-sales support
ZERO combines plant-level reliability with low GWP technology to help partners enter a new era of sustainable cooling.
Conclusion
The future of air conditioning technology lies in sustainable innovation - reducing the burden on the planet while providing a comfortable environment. Among the many refrigerants leading this transformation, R-454B is a key step in the industry's development with its outstanding balance of performance, safety and environmental protection.
For home users, building developers, and HVAC professionals, R-454B represents the next generation of efficient, compliant, and reliable air conditioning technology.
