Why Your Neighbor’s “New” AC Could Already Be Outdated
Welcome to 2026! As the new year begins, many Sarasota homeowners are thinking about their resolutions. For those of you suffering through an uncomfortable or inefficient home this winter, that means finally replacing that old, noisy air conditioner.
Before you sign a contract or choose the lowest price, there’s a big industry change you should know about. This change could make a “brand new” system outdated as soon as it’s installed.
A Major Change in Refrigerants
There’s been a change in refrigerant regulations, and understanding it could save you thousands of dollars in the long run.
The End of R-410A (Puron)
For the past twenty years, R-410A has been the main refrigerant in most Florida home AC units. Now, because of new environmental rules about Global Warming Potential (GWP), R-410A is being phased out, just as R-22 (Freon) was years ago.
Starting in 2026, the industry is switching to new, more efficient, and eco-friendly refrigerants called A2Ls.
The Trap: “Clearance” Deals on Old Tech
This is where homeowners can run into trouble. Since making R-410A units is now limited, some companies are eager to sell off their leftover inventory.
You may see some very low quotes. A company might even say, “We have a special on this 2025 model!”
But, if you buy an R-410A system in 2026, you’re getting a system that won’t last. As R-410A becomes harder to find in the next few years:
- Repair costs will rise quickly: As with R-22, the price of the old refrigerant will probably triple or even quadruple.
- Parts may be hard to find: Manufacturers are now focusing on the new technology.
- Resale value will go down: Future homebuyers won’t want an outdated system.
Be careful.
The Solution: Future-Proofing with R-32
At D&D Air, we want to protect your investment for the next 10 to 15 years, not just help you save money right now. That’s why we work with Daikin, the world’s top HVAC manufacturer.
Daikin was the first to use R-32, the next-generation refrigerant that is now becoming the global standard.
Higher Efficiency
R-32 moves heat more efficiently, so your FPL bills will be lower.
Proven Safety
While some US manufacturers are just starting to use it, Daikin has installed millions of R-32 systems worldwide in the past ten years. It’s tested, proven, and safe.
Long-Term Availability
This is the new standard. You won’t have to worry about your refrigerant becoming rare and expensive in a few years.
Don’t Buy an Already Outdated Model
When you get a quote from D&D Air, you’re not just buying a machine that cools your home. You’re getting up-to-date, reliable technology supported by our experience.
Right now (January 2026, offers may change over time), we’re offering $2,500 in instant savings on these high-efficiency, next-generation systems to start 2026. Don’t settle for an outdated clearance unit. Choose a system that will keep you comfortable and save you money for years to come.
Call D&D Air today at (941) 297-0089. We’ll show you the difference between buying cheap and buying smart.
