R32 vs. R454B: Which will win and why? As of 1/1/25, R410a will start heading into history.

shop.airspool.... By 1/1/2025, the EPA is banning the U.S. production and the importation of R410a machines. What refrigerants will be used for replacement? Likely R32 or R454B.
#r32 #R454B #minisplit #vrf
‪@airspool‬

[@billm.2677]

I wouldn’t worry too much about a lower GWP yet. Do a web search on R454B and the PFAS ‘forever chemical’ toxins. Don’t worry, I am sure that DuPont will have a new replacement for R454b just in time for the impending R454B phase out and new equipment requirements.

[@averyalexander2303]

To me, R32 seems to be the better option. It's cheaper and not patented and from what I can find, it's generally more efficient than R454b. I haven't found any data on whether R32 or R454b is more flammable, they seem about equal from what I can tell. Single component refrigerants are easier to work with and recycle since they won't fractionate. Other than the somewhat lower GWP, I'm just not seeing the benefit of R454b. The lower GWP isn't even a benefit if it's less efficient and results in higher power consumption.