Energy Star, which was launched in 1992, certifies highly efficient appliances, including HVAC equipment, and homes and other buildings. The work is a joint EPA and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) effort.
The proposed Significant New Alternatives Policy Rule 27 would list several lower-GWP substitute refrigerants as acceptable, subject to use conditions, for residential and light commercial air conditioners and heat pumps, chillers, household refrigerators and freezers, motor vehicle air conditioners, and fire suppression and explosion protection.
Another refrigerant transition is inevitable, as innovation drives HVAC forward. But without clearer communication and coordination next time, contractors’ patience — and trust — may finally run out.
EPA is proposing to extend HFC compliance deadlines for key sectors, including residential air conditioning, retail food refrigeration, and cold storage facilities.
Starting January 1, 2026, the EPA will lower the refrigerant charge threshold for leak monitoring and compliance. FMHero offers automated tracking, documentation, and leak monitoring to help companies meet these new requirements efficiently and stay compliant moving forward.
EPA weighs petition to raise cold storage refrigerant GWP limit, with supporters citing cost and code barriers and critics warning it weakens AIM Act goals.