How Different Is Puron® Advance from R-410A?
As HVAC technology evolves, many homeowners are hearing new refrigerant names for the first time. One of the most common questions we hear at Estes Services is: "How different is Puron® Advance from R-410A?"
The short answer is this: they perform very similarly in your home, but Puron® Advance has a much lower environmental impact. This transition is part of a broader industry shift toward lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants in new HVAC equipment.
Estes Heating and Air proudly serves homeowners throughout the Atlanta Metro Area within a 60-mile radius of our headquarters, helping families understand these changes and choose the right heating or air conditioning solution.
What Is R-410A?
R-410A has been the standard refrigerant used in residential air conditioning systems for many years. It replaced older refrigerants like R-22 and delivers strong cooling performance without damaging the ozone layer.
However, R-410A has a relatively high Global Warming Potential (GWP). If refrigerant escapes into the atmosphere, it can trap heat near the Earth's surface, contributing to climate warming. As a result, new HVAC equipment is moving toward lower-GWP alternatives.
What Is Puron® Advance (R-454B)?
Puron® Advance is a next-generation refrigerant developed by Carrier to provide the same dependable comfort homeowners expect, while significantly reducing environmental impact.
As a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer, Estes Services already installs HVAC systems engineered specifically for Puron® Advance, allowing our customers to stay ahead of industry changes without sacrificing comfort or reliability.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | R-410A | Puron® Advance |
|---|---|---|
| Global Warming Potential (GWP) | 2,088 | 466 (≈75% Lower) |
| Ozone Impact | Zero | Zero |
| System Performance | High Efficiency | Comparable, Optimized for New Equipment |
| Safety Classification | A1 (Non-flammable) | A2L (Lower flammability) |
Understanding the A2L Safety Classification
One of the most talked-about differences between Puron® Advance and other refrigerants is its A2L safety classification. While A2L refrigerants are described as "mildly flammable," it is important to understand what that means in real-world terms.
- Harder to ignite: A2L refrigerants have low burning velocity and require specific conditions to ignite.
- Built-in safety systems: Carrier equipment using Puron® Advance includes sensors and controls designed to detect and safely manage leaks.
- Professional handling: Estes technicians are trained and equipped with tools specifically approved for A2L refrigerants.
For homeowners, this means Puron® Advance systems are designed and installed with safety as a top priority.
What This Means for Homeowners
If you are considering a new heating or air conditioning system, choosing equipment designed for Puron® Advance offers several benefits:
- Future readiness: New systems align with current and upcoming refrigerant standards.
- Long-term value: As the industry moves away from R-410A in new equipment, availability and pricing may change over time.
- Environmental responsibility: A significantly lower GWP means less impact if the refrigerant ever escapes.
If you currently own an R-410A system, there is no immediate need to replace it. Estes Services continues to service and maintain existing systems while helping homeowners plan ahead.
Questions About Heating or Air Conditioning?
Whether you need AC repair, a system replacement, or guidance on new refrigerants, the experts at Estes Heating and Air are here to help.
Call us at (404) 362-6960
Or schedule your service online.