August 2024 (271)

Featured Video:

Wall Foam Insulation

Jim loves wall foam insulation for maximizing energy efficiency and recently he had USA Insulation out to his house to insulate the walls. Watch as he goes on site with USA Insulation to see how the unique foam is prepared and then injected into existing walls. Devonte Lockett demonstrates the process that produces the ideal product to provide optimum insulation for your home.

Scott reached out to Jim with questions about pex pipe systems. Jim explains about the different types and his preferences for this excellent option for new or replacement plumbing.

Abdul is building a new house and asks Jim for advice on many elements including insulation, radiant barrier, water heater, AC, foundation and more.

New EPA Regulations for HVAC Systems

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recently proposed regulations aimed at reducing the Global Warming Potential (GWP) of refrigerants used in air conditioners, heat pumps, and commercial refrigeration equipment. These new refrigerant requirements for 2025 focus on transitioning to low GWP refrigerants, which significantly decrease the environmental impact compared to traditional refrigerants like R-410A. In 2025, the goal is to eliminate all refrigerants with a high GWP. In practice, this means that all new AC units must use refrigerants with a GWP rating of 750 or less. A major reduction from current options that average about 2,000 GWP, the aim is to limit negative effects on the ozone layer, encourage environmental friendliness, and innovate better AC systems.

New equipment will utilize either R-454B or R-32. But, this change will have no immediate impact on your current HVAC system. Your HVAC company will still be able to service your existing system.

Existing air conditioning and heat pump equipment is not subject to EPA regulations and can continue to be used through equipment end-of-life. The supply of R-410A, R-134a, and other refrigerants to meet servicing needs will remain available for the foreseeable future even as overall production and imports decline through the middle of the next decade.

As the 2025 refrigerant changes approach, it’s important to know that equipment will cost 20 to 30% more to manufacture because of the new mandates. Now is the best time to invest in an energy-efficient system before the cost of equipment goes up.

Find out more here with an update from The National Association of Home Builders.

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