With new EPA regulations on the horizon, the HVAC industry is transitioning to newer refrigerants. While R-410A is gradually being phased out, it remains a reliable and widely used option, and homeowners should consider their best course of action based on their individual needs. What Do EPA Regulations Mean to You? The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has introduced new regulations to phase out high Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants like R-410A in favor of more environmentally friendly alternatives. These regulations are part of the broader effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change. Phaseout Timeline: Manufacturers will stop producing new HVAC units using R-410A by 2025, but existing systems can still be used and serviced. Shift to Low-GWP Refrigerants: The industry is transitioning to A2L refrigerants like R-32 and R-454B, which have significantly lower GWP values. Impact on Homeowners: While new systems will eventually require alternative refrigerants, R-410A equipment will still be serviceable for years to come, ensuring a smooth transition. What Do These Changes Mean for Homeowners Looking For New Systems? The transition to new refrigerants is designed to reduce environmental impact, but it doesn’t mean that R-410A systems will become obsolete overnight. If you currently have an R-410A system or are considering installing one, here’s what you need to know: Ongoing Support: R-410A refrigerant and replacement parts will continue to be available for years, ensuring continued serviceability. Proven Performance: These systems have been widely used for years, offering efficiency and reliability that homeowners trust. Gradual Transition: While new refrigerants will become standard in the future, R-410A systems remain a viable and practical choice today. Understanding the Transition to A2L Refrigerants The industry is shifting toward A2L refrigerants like R-32 and R-454B, which offer lower environmental impact but come with important considerations: Higher Flammability Potential: Unlike R-410A, classified as non-flammable, A2L refrigerants have a lower flammability rating. While they are not highly flammable, proper safety protocols must be followed during installation and maintenance. Cost Differences: Newer refrigerant systems may involve higher equipment costs and increased requirements Handling Requirements: Technicians must undergo specialized training to work with A2L refrigerants safely. Not a Direct Swap: Existing R-410A systems cannot be retrofitted to use A2L refrigerants, meaning a system upgrade would be necessary when making the switch. While A2L refrigerants are the industry's future, R-410A remains a practical and cost-effective solution for many homeowners today. Take advantage of the lower costs while still available Deciding whether to install an R-410A system now or wait for A2L options depends on your priorities. If you are looking for a dependable and cost-effective system with familiar maintenance and servicing options, R-410A remains a strong choice. However, if you’re planning a long-term investment and are open to the new standards, researching A2L options may be beneficial. At Buckley Heat & Air, we help you navigate these changes and make the best choice for your home’s heating and cooling needs. Download our Free Buyers Guide to learn more. Call us at (916) 374-7788 or visit our website at https://www.buckleyheatair.com / for more information. Our team is ready to help you find the perfect solution for your home. Do not forget to ask about our special offers . Our team is ready to assist you with the latest information and options to ensure you get the best HVAC solution for your home.

After months of icy mornings and frosty nights, your heater has been working overtime to keep you warm. But as winter winds down, one big question remains: Is your heating system still in top shape, or is it headed for an early retirement? Without proper maintenance, heaters can lose efficiency, struggle to keep up, and even break down when you least expect it. The good news? A little seasonal upkeep can go a long way in keeping your home cozy while preventing high energy bills and costly repairs. Here’s what you need to do before winter says goodbye. 1. Your Heater Has Been a Winter Warrior—Give It a Well-Deserved Tune-Up! Think of your heating system like a car. You wouldn’t drive thousands of miles without an oil change, right? The same logic applies here! A properly maintained heater runs more efficiently, lasts longer, and saves you money on energy bills. A seasonal check-up can: Prevent costly breakdowns Keep your system running at peak performance Lower your energy bills by improving its efficiency Extend the lifespan of your heater Pro Tip: Scheduling regular maintenance ensures your system is inspected, cleaned, and optimized—so you’re not left in the cold when you need it most! 2. The #1 Heater Killer? A Dirty Filter! If you haven’t checked your air filter recently, chances are it’s overdue for a change. A clogged filter blocks airflow and forces your system to work harder, and can even cause it to overheat. Here’s why changing your filter is a must: Dirty filters make your heater work 15% harder (meaning higher bills for you!) They trap dust and allergens, reducing air quality in your home Neglecting them can lead to costly repairs The Easy Fix? Every system maintenance with Buckley Heat & Air includes one FREE filter replacement—because keeping your heater in top shape should be effortless! 3. Strange Noises? Uneven Heating? Your Heater Might Be Trying to Tell You Something! Your heater shouldn’t sound like a haunted house. If you hear whistling, banging, or rattling, it’s a sign that something’s wrong. Here’s what common heater sounds could mean: Whistling? You might have airflow restrictions or a clogged filter. Banging or popping? Could be expanding ductwork or ignition issues. Rattling? Loose parts or failing components could be to blame. Ignoring these sounds can turn minor issues into major repairs, so don’t wait—get your system checked before minor problems become expensive headaches! 4. Smart Tips to Help Your Heater Work Smarter, Not Harder Even a well-maintained heater needs a little help to keep your home warm efficiently. Here are a few easy tricks to lighten its workload: Seal the leaks – Check windows and doors for drafts and use weather stripping to keep warm air inside. Program your thermostat – Set it lower when you’re asleep or away to save energy. Clear the area around vents – Make sure furniture or rugs aren’t blocking airflow. Use ceiling fans – Running them clockwise on low helps distribute heat evenly. Small changes can add to big savings—keeping you comfortable without overworking your heater! 5. Real Homeowners, Real Results: Why Seasonal Maintenance Matters "My home had a system installed by Buckley many years ago and we've had continued seasonal maintenance since then. The experience and service were so good that we just had them install a new system. They worked with my contractor and the process was seamless. Buckley's customer service is stellar. I really appreciate that I don't have to remember when my maintenance is due, Lori does that! They accommodate my schedule, which is unusual for businesses. I'm a person who likes information and Buckley took the time to explain things to me without hurry. Sacramento is lucky to have this family business, which shows the community just how business should be conducted. I would highly recommend Buckley's." – Maria Ruby “Kyle came and performed some routine winter maintenance on our HVAC. He took the time to teach us about our filter system and how to maintain it and provided us with extra information about what he found and what he did. A+ plus work!” – Samuel Hendryx The Buckley Promise: Stay Warm, Stay Efficient—And Get One Free Filter! At Buckley Heat & Air, we know the importance of having a reliable, efficient heating system—especially after a tough winter. That’s why we offer: Comprehensive maintenance checks to keep your system running smoothly Expert technicians who catch minor issues before they become big problems One FREE filter replacement with every system maintenance—because clean filters = happy heaters! Don’t wait for a breakdown—schedule your seasonal maintenance today! Give us a call or just text “Filter” to (916) 374-7788 or visit Buckley Heat & Air to book your service and keep your home safe and comfortable all year long.