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R-32 & R-454B (R-35?): How These New Refrigerants Are Being Used in New Construction in Texas

  • Writer: Nitin Gupta, CRS, REALTOR
    Nitin Gupta, CRS, REALTOR
  • Feb 26
  • 4 min read


As Texas continues to experience rapid new construction growth, particularly in residential and commercial real estate, the HVAC industry is shifting toward eco-friendly, energy-efficient refrigerants. R-32 and R-454B (sometimes referred to as R-35) are at the forefront of this change, replacing older refrigerants like R-410A, which is being phased out due to its high Global Warming Potential (GWP).


Here’s how R-32 and R-454B are shaping new construction HVAC systems in Texas.


1. Why Texas Builders Are Adopting R-32 & R-454B in New Construction

With record-breaking heatwaves and an increased focus on energy-efficient homes, Texas builders are under pressure to integrate sustainable HVAC solutions into new developments.

Key Drivers for Change:

  • Regulatory Mandates – The EPA has set deadlines to phase out high-GWP refrigerants like R-410A, making R-32 and R-454B preferred choices.

  • Energy Efficiency – Texas homes require high-performance HVAC systems due to extreme heat, and both R-32 and R-454B offer better cooling efficiency than older refrigerants.

  • Environmental Considerations – With Texas cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston pushing for green building standards, new construction projects are favoring low-GWP refrigerants.

  • Cost Savings – R-32 and R-454B require less refrigerant per system, lowering installation and operating costs in large-scale developments.


2. R-32 in Texas New Construction

R-32 has gained popularity in residential and light commercial HVAC systems across Texas, with many new developments incorporating this refrigerant into their cooling systems.

How R-32 is Being Used:

  • Single-family homes – New subdivisions in Frisco, McKinney, and Austin are equipping homes with R-32-based air conditioners and heat pumps.

  • Multi-family apartments – Large-scale apartment complexes are shifting to R-32 for higher efficiency and lower operating costs.

  • Commercial buildings – Small offices, retail centers, and hotels are beginning to adopt R-32 split systems for better energy performance.

Why Builders Prefer R-32:

✔ 30% lower GWP than R-410A, making it more environmentally friendly.✔ Higher energy efficiency, reducing electricity costs for homeowners.✔ Readily available and already adopted by major HVAC manufacturers like Daikin, Mitsubishi, and Carrier.


3. R-454B (R-35?) in Texas New Construction

R-454B is being positioned as the long-term replacement for R-410A, with many builders opting for future-proofed HVAC systems designed to run on this refrigerant.

How R-454B is Being Used:

  • Luxury and custom homes – High-end builders in areas like Southlake, University Park, and The Woodlands are installing next-generation R-454B systems to meet sustainability and efficiency goals.

  • Commercial office spaces – Developers are integrating R-454B in new office buildings to comply with upcoming refrigerant regulations.

  • Large-scale residential developments – Builders in Texas' fastest-growing cities (Fort Worth, Houston suburbs, and San Antonio) are designing HVAC infrastructure that supports R-454B for long-term use.

Why Builders Prefer R-454B:

✔ GWP of 466, making it one of the most eco-friendly refrigerants on the market.✔ Compatible with modified R-410A systems, making it easier to transition from older units.✔ Future-proof investment, as many manufacturers are shifting to R-454B in 2025 and beyond.


4. Future Outlook: What’s Next for Texas New Construction?

As HVAC codes evolve and builders look for cost-effective, eco-friendly solutions, R-32 and R-454B will dominate the market. Here’s what to expect:

  • New homes in Texas built after 2025 will likely feature either R-32 or R-454B systems instead of R-410A.

  • High-performance buildings will integrate smart HVAC systems using these refrigerants, optimizing energy efficiency.

  • Homebuyers will demand greener HVAC solutions, pushing builders to adopt these refrigerants faster.


Final Thought: Texas is Leading the Transition to Next-Gen Refrigerants

With new environmental regulations, extreme heat challenges, and demand for energy efficiency, R-32 and R-454B are shaping the future of Texas real estate. If you’re considering buying or building a new home, checking the HVAC refrigerant type can help ensure lower energy costs and long-term sustainability.


Please call us at 469-269-6541 for more details about Frisco real estate!


 

About us: Frisco New Construction Expert Real Estate Agent


As a Top Real Estate Professional in Frisco & Dallas area, I understand the challenges that arise when buying a new construction home. There are over 50 builders in the Dallas area. I work with most of the new home builders in Dallas and understand how various builders operate. I am familiar with the options they offer, current incentives and I frequently visit the upcoming communities they are building. I guide my clients through all steps of the new home construction process and aggressively protect their interests in the transaction.


As a holder of top real estate industry certifications and designations like CRS, ABR & GRI, I can offer my clients experience as a Buyer's Agent in Frisco and REALTOR®, top Industry Customer Service, in-depth, up-to-the-minute and comprehensive market knowledge; honesty, integrity, dedication, and professionalism in my business.


Whether you are a first time buyer in Frisco looking to buy a home in Dallas or Frisco or whether you are relocating to Frisco from California or moving your entire family from areas like San Francisco, Fremont, Palo Alto, Los Angeles, San Diego in California due to job transfer with your company, I can help you find a new construction home in Frisco. Our relocation team eases the transition - whether you are moving across town or across the globe. We will work with you to find an area that best suits your professional, family and lifestyle needs. We have all the tools you need to help your home search. Whether it is video previews of homes, extended work hours, digital signatures for documents or more, we can make this process as comfortable as possible no matter where you are located.



What is most important to you in your new construction home in Frisco? Send us an email at info@NitinGuptaDFW.com or give us a call at (469) 269-6541 to schedule a no obligation consultation. We’ll give you honest advice about Frisco community that you can use to help make your home buying decision.








 
 
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