EPA Now Requires Leak Reporting for Systems Over 15 Pounds
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency lowered the refrigerant threshold from 50 pounds to 15 pounds on January 1, 2026, for systems containing high-global warming potential refrigerants. This change brings an estimated 70% more systems under federal oversight. Many walk-in coolers, rooftop units, and smaller commercial HVAC systems that were previously exempt now fall under the same leak detection, repair, and reporting requirements that applied only to larger systems.
If you service commercial buildings, retail stores, schools, or healthcare facilities, you likely have customers with systems that now require federal compliance. These systems must meet strict leak detection standards, repair timelines, and reporting rules. Missing these requirements can trigger EPA penalties. Customers may not realize their equipment now falls under this regulation.
Review your service contracts and identify which systems now exceed the 15-pound threshold. Update your maintenance plans to include leak detection protocols and reporting procedures for newly covered equipment.
Key Takeaways:
- EPA threshold dropped from 50 to 15 pounds on January 1, 2026
- Change affects an estimated 70% more refrigerant-containing systems nationwide
- Walk-in coolers and smaller rooftop units now require federal leak reporting
- Systems must meet leak detection, repair timelines, and documentation requirements
