R32 vs R454B: Which Refrigerant is Right for Your Commercial HVAC Project?
Understanding next-generation refrigerants for AIM Act compliant commercial HVAC installations.
The AIM Act has accelerated the transition from R-410A to low-GWP refrigerants in commercial HVAC. The two leading replacements are R-32 and R-454B, both classified as A2L (mildly flammable) refrigerants with significantly lower global warming potential.
This guide explains the technical differences between R-32 and R-454B, which brands use each refrigerant, and how to choose the right option for your commercial project. Both refrigerants are fully AIM Act compliant.
ClimateProDirect stocks equipment using both R-32 and R-454B from authorized brands, all available with $0 sales tax.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Property | R-32 | R-454B |
|---|---|---|
| GWP (Global Warming Potential) | 675 | 466 |
| Safety Classification | A2L (Mildly Flammable) | A2L (Mildly Flammable) |
| AIM Act Compliant | Yes | Yes |
| Composition | Single component | R-32 (68.9%) + R-1234yf (31.1%) |
| Efficiency vs R-410A | Comparable or better | Comparable |
| Operating Pressure | Similar to R-410A | Similar to R-410A |
| Primary Brands | Daikin | Goodman, Trane, Carrier |
| Equipment Availability | Growing | Widely available |
| Technician Training | A2L certification required | A2L certification required |
AIM Act Compliance
Both R-32 and R-454B meet AIM Act requirements. R-32 has a GWP of 675, while R-454B has a GWP of 466. Both are dramatically lower than R-410A (GWP 2,088), making them compliant with the HFC phase-down schedule.
$0 Sales Tax Savings
Whether you choose R-32 or R-454B equipment, purchasing through ClimateProDirect saves you sales tax. A $7,200 Daikin R-32 unit saves $432 in a 6% tax state.
Shop Tax-Free Equipment
Trane
Trane 2 Ton 13.4 SEER2 Central Air Conditioner Condenser - R454B Single Stage - RunTru by Trane
2T · 13.4 SEER2 · R454B
$1,426
Trane
Trane 2.5 Ton 13.4 SEER2 Central Air Conditioner Condenser - R454B Single Stage - RunTru by Trane
2.5T · 13.4 SEER2 · R454B
$1,515
Trane
Trane 3 Ton 13.4 SEER2 Central Air Conditioner Condenser - R454B Single Stage - RunTru by Trane
3T · 13.4 SEER2 · R454B
$1,603
Trane
Trane 2 Ton 14.3 SEER2 Central Air Conditioner Condenser - R454B Single Stage - RunTru by Trane
2T · 14.3 SEER2 · R454B
$1,637
Goodman
Goodman 2 Ton 13.4 SEER2 Central Air Conditioner Condenser - R32 Single Stage
2T · 13.4 SEER2 · R32
$1,720
Trane
Trane 3.5 Ton 13.4 SEER2 Central Air Conditioner Condenser - R454B Single Stage - RunTru by Trane
3.5T · 13.4 SEER2 · R454B
$1,721
Trane
Trane 2.5 Ton 14.3 SEER2 Central Air Conditioner Condenser - R454B Single Stage - RunTru by Trane
2.5T · 14.3 SEER2 · R454B
$1,723
Trane
Trane 2 Ton 15.2 SEER2 Central Air Conditioner Condenser - R454B Single Stage - RunTru by Trane
2T · 15.2 SEER2 · R454B
$1,784
Frequently Asked Questions
Is R-32 or R-454B better for commercial HVAC?▼
Can I still install R-410A equipment?▼
Do technicians need special training for R-32 and R-454B?▼
What is the difference between GWP and ODP?▼
Which refrigerant has better long-term availability?▼
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