California HFC Refrigerant Regulations

California  new law that will ban the use of higher GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerants above a equal or greater than 2,200 (CA SB1206).  Wholesalers and technicians need to be aware of these new rules taking effect January 1, 2025. Refrigerants Center, would like to review some of the most important points so customers are aware of them and can properly prepare.  The full rule is available online on California’s CARB website.

Key Points from SB1206:

• Effective January 1, 2025: Virgin refrigerants with a GWP of 2,200 or higher are banned. This impacts refrigerants like R-422A, R-422B, R-422C, R-422D, R-428A, R-438A, R-404A, R-407A, R-408A, and R-507 used in HVAC-R.
• Effective January 1, 2030: Virgin refrigerants with a GWP of 1,500 or higher are banned, affecting refrigerants such as R-410A, R-407A, and R-407C.
• Effective January 1, 2033: Virgin refrigerants with a GWP of 750 or higher are banned, eliminating most HFCs, except for some like R-32.
• Exemptions: Reclaimed refrigerants are not subject to these bans and can still be used for OEM applications or servicing.
• Compliance Requirements: Wholesalers and technicians must remove all non-compliant virgin refrigerants above the GWP thresholds from service to avoid penalties.
• Regulation Scope: These rules apply to all individuals and businesses, regardless of refrigerant quantity or packaging type.
• R-22 Retrofits: Technicians can continue using Forane® R-427A for R-22 retrofits until the end of 2029.
• Additional Regulations: All AIM Act provisions remain in effect.

For more details, consult your refrigerant supplier or contact Refrigerants Center, Inc.® refrigerants team at 682-800-7488.