EPA Rule Now Allows R-410A Equipment Installations Through Year-End

Regulation

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency finalized a rule on July 27 that gives HVAC contractors more time to install R-410A equipment. Under the rule, systems with refrigerants above 700 GWP can be installed through December 31, 2026, as long as all components were manufactured or imported before January 1, 2026. The regulation addresses the industry's transition away from high-GWP refrigerants under the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act.

This timeline matters if you're sitting on R-410A inventory. You now have a clear federal window to install existing stock through the end of this year without compliance risk. That gives you time to move equipment you've already purchased while planning your transition to lower-GWP alternatives for 2027.

Check your current inventory and verify manufacturing or import dates on all R-410A systems. Document those dates now to confirm you're compliant if questions arise during installations later this year.

Key Takeaways:

• R-410A systems can be installed through December 31, 2026
• All components must be manufactured or imported before January 1, 2026
• Rule provides federal compliance clarity for contractors with existing inventory
• New refrigerant requirements take effect January 1, 2027

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency