New HVAC equipment no longer uses R-410A. As of January 1, 2025, manufacturers have transitioned to more environmentally friendly refrigerants such as R-32 and R-454B in residential air conditioners, heat pumps, and mini splits. These refrigerants have significantly lower global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-410A, helping reduce environmental impact.

The EPA and industry regulators are phasing down high-GWP refrigerants like R-410A to support long-term environmental goals. R-32 and R-454B are more efficient and have lower GWP, making them the required standard in new equipment.

R-410A was phased out due to its high Global Warming Potential (GWP), which contributes significantly to climate change when released into the atmosphere. While R-410A does not deplete the ozone layer, environmental regulations in the United States and abroad target refrigerants with high GWP in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As a result, new HVAC equipment using R-410A began to be phased out in 2023, with manufacturers transitioning to alternative refrigerants that meet updated environmental standards. Existing R-410A systems are not banned from operation, and servicing them remains allowed, but new system production is being replaced with more environmentally responsible options.

R-22 (chlorodifluoromethane) was phased out because it is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) that severely depletes the ozone layer and has high global warming potential (GWP). Phased out under the Montreal Protocol and EPA regulations, production/import of R22 ended in the U.S. on January 1, 2020. The industry shifted to more environmentally friendly, chlorine-free alternatives like R-410A. The phase-out was part of a global effort to switch to environmentally sustainable cooling solutions.

SEER2 stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2, the updated metric used to measure HVAC system efficiency across an entire cooling season. It replaces the older SEER rating and uses more realistic testing procedures that better reflect real-world performance.

SEER2 ratings often appear lower than legacy SEER ratings because the testing standards were updated to more accurately simulate actual operating conditions. Lower numbers do not mean decreased efficiency—units certified under SEER2 typically perform better than older SEER-rated models. 

The U.S. Department of Energy has implemented SEER2 as the national efficiency standard for air conditioners and heat pumps manufactured after January 1, 2023. This change ensures that new equipment meets higher efficiency standards, which can lead to lower energy costs and greater long-term savings.

Yes. All new HVAC equipment manufactured after January 1, 2023 must meet SEER2 testing and efficiency requirements. This applies nationwide, though specific minimum efficiency levels may vary by region and system type. 

Equipment manufactured before January 1, 2023 with legacy SEER ratings may still be sold until inventory is depleted. However, once this older stock is gone, only SEER2-rated equipment will be available. 

Yes. SEER2 is designed to better reflect how HVAC equipment performs in real homes, leading to higher actual efficiency and reducing energy consumption and costs over time. 

We sell HVAC equipment directly to Homeowners, Developers, Real Estate Professionals and Licensed General and Mechanical Contractors. Many homeowners choose to purchase equipment through us to save money and work with their preferred local installer. While we do not provide installation services, we strongly recommend that all HVAC equipment be installed by a licensed professional to ensure proper setup, safety, and warranty compliance.

No. The AC Outlet is an equipment distributor only and does not perform installations. Focusing our attention solely on equipment allows us to offer the most competitive pricing nationwide. Customers are responsible for hiring a qualified licensed and insured local HVAC contractor to install the equipment in order to maintain the integrity of its’ warranty. With this said, The AC Outlet does have a database of contractors willing to install HVAC systems purchased through our online store. Please be sure to visit the Homeowner section of our website and see if there are contractors near you! 

Sizing HVAC equipment depends on many factors, including square footage, insulation levels, ceiling height, window exposure, climate, and building construction. While we can provide general industry-based guidance, final sizing should always be confirmed by a licensed HVAC professional performing a Manual J or equivalent load calculation. The AC Outlet is not responsible for sizing decisions.

In some cases, older or discontinued models are replaced by the manufacturer with newer, compliant equipment. When this occurs, customers may receive a free upgrade to the most current equivalent model at no additional cost. These upgrades often include newer refrigerants or updated efficiency standards which would otherwise come at a premium.

All newly manufactured HVAC systems use EPA-compliant refrigerants, such as R-32 or R-454B, which replace older refrigerants like R-410A. These newer refrigerants have lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) and meet current environmental regulations.

SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2) is the updated DOE efficiency standard that replaced legacy SEER ratings in 2023. SEER2 uses more realistic testing conditions, so ratings may appear lower even though real-world efficiency is often equal or better than older SEER-rated equipment.

Returns are accepted within 30 days of delivery for unused, uninstalled equipment, in original packaging subject to our published return policy. Original shipping costs are non-refundable, and a restocking fee may apply. Equipment that has been installed or orders outside the return window are not eligible for return.

All equipment must be inspected upon delivery. Any visible shipping damage must be noted on the delivery receipt and reported to us immediately. Concealed damage must be reported within the timeframe outlined in our shipping policy. Failure to report damage promptly may limit available remedies.

Yes. All HVAC equipment sold by The AC Outlet includes a manufacturer warranty. Warranty terms vary by brand and product type. The AC Outlet does not provide its own warranty but offers courtesy assistance in submitting manufacturer warranty claims when proper diagnostic documentation is provided. Further, The AC Outlet is a reseller of Extended Equipment Warranties. Call for more details.

Manufacturers require a licensed technician’s diagnosis, including error codes and confirmation of a failed component. In many cases, manufacturers also require technicians to contact their technical support while on site. Replacement parts—not full unit replacement—are the standard warranty remedy.

Some products are specifically marked as DIY, while others require professional installation. Installing non-DIY equipment yourself will likely void the manufacturer warranty and create safety risks. Always verify installation requirements before proceeding.

Most orders ship within 3–5 business days, though freight transit times vary by location and carrier. Tracking information is provided once the shipment is picked up by the carrier. Large HVAC systems ship via palletized freight to ensure safe delivery.

HVAC equipment is bulky and ships secured on a pallet—typically 48" x 40"—to prevent damage. Freight delivery is required due to size, not weight alone, and may involve large trucks. Customers should ensure delivery access is suitable prior to shipment.

We can ship to most locations; however, freight carriers may have limitations accessing narrow roads or remote areas. In such cases, customers may need to arrange delivery to a nearby commercial location or terminal. Additional charges may apply.

Legacy listings remain active because many customers search using older model numbers or efficiency ratings. When those models are discontinued, customers receive the manufacturer-approved replacement, which meets current efficiency and refrigerant standards.

Often, yes. Because we are an equipment-only distributor and do not include installation or service costs, our prices are frequently lower than contractor-installed systems. Installation, permitting, and labor costs are separate and handled by your chosen contractor.

The AC Outlet has been serving customers nationwide for over 16 years, shipping tens of thousands of HVAC systems. Our experience allows us to help customers navigate equipment selection, shipping logistics, and manufacturer warranty processes with confidence all while saving hundreds.