If you’ve shopped for a new air conditioner or heat pump lately, you may have noticed that many Goodman systems are no longer listed with R-410A refrigerant. Instead, they feature R-32. This switch is part of a global trend in the HVAC industry—and it has major implications for efficiency, environmental impact, and long-term system ownership.
5 Ton Up To 13.4 SEER2 Goodman Air Conditioner Condenser - GLXS3BN6010
In this article, we’ll break down:
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The key differences between R-32 and R-410A refrigerants
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Why Goodman made the switch to R-32
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How this change affects homeowners in 2025 and beyond
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What to expect if you’re upgrading or replacing your system
A Quick Refresher: What Does Refrigerant Do?
Refrigerant is the lifeblood of an air conditioner or heat pump. It cycles through the system, absorbing heat indoors and releasing it outdoors (or vice versa in heating mode).
For decades, refrigerants have changed due to environmental regulations and performance demands:
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R-22 (Freon®) → Phased out due to ozone depletion
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R-410A (Puron®) → Became the industry standard in the early 2000s
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R-32 → Today’s next-generation solution for lower global warming impact
R-32 vs. R-410A: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | R-410A | R-32 |
|---|---|---|
| Global Warming Potential (GWP) | ~2,088 | ~675 (≈ 68% lower) |
| Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) | 0 | 0 |
| Efficiency | Good | Better—higher heat transfer efficiency |
| Safety Classification | A1 (non-flammable) | A2L (mildly flammable) |
| Charge Volume Needed | Higher | Lower (≈20% less refrigerant) |
| Adoption | Legacy (being phased out) | Future standard (widely adopted globally) |
Why Goodman Made the Switch
Goodman’s decision to move from R-410A to R-32 wasn’t random—it aligns with U.S. environmental policy and global best practices:
1. Compliance with Regulations
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The American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act requires an 85% phasedown of HFC refrigerants like R-410A by 2036.
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To meet these rules, HVAC manufacturers had to find alternatives with lower GWP. R-32 checks the box.
2. Proven Global Performance
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R-32 has been used in Japan, Europe, and Australia for over a decade.
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By the time Goodman adopted it in North America, R-32 already had millions of successful installs worldwide.
3. Better System Efficiency
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R-32 transfers heat more efficiently than R-410A.
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This translates to higher SEER2 ratings and potentially lower electricity bills for homeowners.
4. Simpler to Service
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Unlike some newer blends, R-32 is a single-component refrigerant.
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That means easier recycling, recharging, and leak detection for technicians.
What It Means for You as a Homeowner
Switching refrigerants affects not only manufacturers but also end users like you. Here’s how:
✅ Lower Energy Bills
R-32 systems often run more efficiently, which means your Goodman AC or heat pump could save you 5–10% annually on electricity compared to older R-410A systems.
🌎 Greener Choice
By choosing a system with R-32, you’re lowering your household’s carbon footprint—and future-proofing against refrigerant bans.
🔧 Maintenance Differences
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R-32 uses less refrigerant per system.
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Mild flammability (A2L rating) means technicians will need updated handling certifications, but this doesn’t affect everyday homeowners.
💰 Resale and Replacement Value
R-410A systems are becoming legacy equipment. While you can still buy and service them today, refrigerant availability will become more expensive over time. Investing in R-32 now helps avoid supply shortages down the road.
Common Homeowner Questions
Q: Can I retrofit my old R-410A system to use R-32?
➡️ No. R-32 systems are designed differently. You’ll need a new AC or heat pump.
Q: Is R-32 safe in my home?
➡️ Yes. It’s classified as mildly flammable (A2L), but systems are built with safeguards. Millions of R-32 units are safely operating worldwide.
Q: Will R-32 eventually be replaced, too?
➡️ Possibly, as even lower-GWP refrigerants (like R-454B) enter the market. But R-32 is expected to remain a long-term solution thanks to its balance of safety, efficiency, and environmental performance.
The Bottom Line
Goodman’s move from R-410A to R-32 is about more than just regulatory compliance—it’s about delivering higher efficiency, lower environmental impact, and long-term reliability for homeowners.
If you’re shopping for a new AC or heat pump in 2025, choosing a Goodman system with R-32 refrigerant ensures you’re ahead of the curve with:
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Better efficiency
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Lower operating costs
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A refrigerant that will be available for years to come
In short, R-32 is the future—and Goodman is bringing it home today.
In the next topic we will know more about: Single-Stage vs. Two-Stage 5-Ton ACs: Which One Should Mark Choose?
