Canada will implement significant restrictions on R410A refrigerant as part of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol. This international agreement aims to reduce hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) use by 85% by 2036. For HVAC contractors, distributors, and business owners across Canada, understanding these changes — and preparing for the transition to A2L refrigerants like the new refrigerant R454B — is essential for staying competitive and compliant.
What Is an A2L Refrigerant?
A2L refrigerants are not new — they’ve been used for years in smaller cooling appliances. In the future, there will be two main refrigerants used for residential and light commercial comfort cooling: R32 and the new, lower GWP, refrigerant R454B.
The “A2L” classification means these refrigerants are:
- A = non-toxic
- 2L = mildly flammable, with a much lower risk than A2 or A3 refrigerants
- Lower GWP (global warming potential) than traditional HFC refrigerants, making them compliant with new environmental standards
Both R32 and R454B meet today’s strict Canadian safety, performance, and environmental requirements, while providing efficient cooling performance for residential and commercial applications.
R32 vs R454B Refrigerant: Key Differences Contractors Should Know
Both refrigerants meet low-GWP requirements, but they differ in performance characteristics and supply-chain implications.
R32: Single-Component Refrigerant
R32 is a pure HFC refrigerant. This means:
- Simpler to manage
- More efficient thermodynamically
- Easier to recycle
New R454B Refrigerant
R454B is a refrigerant blend of R32 and R1234yf. This means:
- Lower GWP than R32, so better for the environment
- Closely matches the performance of the current R410A
- Preferred by several OEMs for long-term compatibility and performance
- More complex recycling
Compliance Standards for R32 and R454B Refrigerants
Both refrigerants are A2L-classified and compliant with:
- CSA B52-2023 Code (adopted in Quebec and other provinces)
- ASHRAE A2L standards
- UL 60335-2-40 (3rd edition)
Contractors working with A2Ls must be trained and equipped to meet these standards.
Understanding the HVAC A2L Refrigerant changes in Canada
The new A2L changes, when fully adopted, will:
- Prohibit new HVAC equipment using R410A refrigerant
- Reduce production and import quotas for R410A refrigerant, making supply tighter each year
- Require HVAC manufacturers to switch to lower-GWP alternatives, including A2L refrigerants
- Enforce stricter rules around R410A handling, recovery, and disposal
While the proposed changes don’t require homeowners to replace their existing systems, they will affect how these systems are serviced and maintained going forward.
How A2L Refrigerant Regulations Affect HVAC Businesses
During this transition period, Canadian contractors will work with three main refrigerants:
- R410A (GWP: 2,088) – A compliant A1 refrigerant safety classification. Still approved in Canada and the main refrigerant at this time
- R32 (GWP: 675) – A compliant A2L refrigerant adopted by several OEMs
- R454B (GWP: 466) – A compliant A2L refrigerant selected by many manufacturers as the long-term replacement for R410A
How to Prepare Your HVAC Business for A2L Compliance
Immediate Steps (Next 12 Months):
- Get Trained
All technicians should complete A2L refrigerant certification, covering:
- Safe handling
- Leak detection
- Installation requirements
- Ventilation and ignition-source precautions
- Update Equipment
Purchase:
- A2L-compatible leak detectors
- Vacuum pumps and gauges designed for A2L refrigerants
- R32/R454B-compatible service tools
- Review Compliance Requirements
Understand:
- CSA B52-2023 (adopted in most provinces)
- ASHRAE A2L standards for installation and servicing
- Strengthen Supplier Relationships
Secure consistent access to:
- R32 refrigerant
- R454B refrigerant
- A2L-ready equipment
Medium-Term Planning (6–12 Months):
- Prepare Your Service Fleet
Stock up on:
- A2L-rated extinguishers
- R32 and R454B recovery cylinders
- Service tools and PPE
2. Educate Customers
Provide simple, clear materials explaining:
- Why R410A is being phased down
- Long-term environmental and efficiency advantages of R32 and R454B
3. Implement Strong Documentation
A2L installations require:
- Precise refrigerant charge documentation
- Safety measures
- Compliance records
This documentation protects both technicians and homeowners.
Conforto’s Role in Your Success
At Conforto, we understand that adapting to new A2L refrigerant regulations is a major shift for the Canadian HVAC industry. We’re committed to helping contractors every step of the way with:
- Expert guidance and compliance support
- Technical assistance for your team
- Up-to-date product information and recommendations
Coming in Mid-2026: Conforto’s Full R454B Product Line
Our upcoming R454B offerings will include:
- Fully compliant, high-efficiency, ENERGY STAR systems
- Complete technical documentation
- Installation support and training
We chose the new refrigerant R454B because it offers:
- Long-term global availability
- Multiple supply-source reliability
- Stronger environmental performance
- Excellent efficiency and operating characteristics
Need Support Preparing for the A2L Transition?
Whether you’re updating tools, training technicians, or preparing customers, our team will be here to help.