R-454B and PTAC Replacement: What Changed and What Did Not
If you have priced a PTAC lately, you have seen R-454B on the spec sheet. Current GE Zoneline units, GE Zoneline Vertical units, and current Applied Comfort series including the DM, 16, K, and EA all use it. Earlier generations used R-410A, and much older units used R-22.
Why the change
Under the EPA's Technology Transitions rule, new residential and light commercial air conditioning and heat pump equipment moved to refrigerants with a global warming potential below 700, starting with equipment made in 2025. R-410A has a much higher GWP. R-454B's GWP is around 467, which GE lists on its vertical units.
In 2026 the EPA removed the installation deadline for qualifying equipment made before 2025, so remaining stock of older R-410A equipment can still be installed. Rules can change, so check current requirements for new projects.
What it means for a replacement
- Same fit. Applied Comfort's R-454B units keep the same dimensions as the R-410A versions they replaced. The DM, EA, and 16 Series use the same sleeves, grilles, and subbases. GE Zoneline still fits the same 42 x 16 sleeve it has used since 1961.
- Self-contained. A PTAC is a sealed system. You do not connect refrigerant lines in the field, so a new R-454B unit next to old R-410A units in the same building is not a compatibility problem.
- Mixing generations. Spare parts for refrigerant circuits are not interchangeable between generations. Keep that in mind when stocking spares.
A2L: mildly flammable
R-454B is classified A2L, meaning low toxicity and mildly flammable. For a factory-sealed PTAC that arrives charged, the day-to-day effect is small, but technicians who open the sealed system need the right training, tools, and recovery practices. Follow the manufacturer's service instructions.
Should you replace R-410A or R-22 units now?
A refrigerant change alone is not a reason to replace a working unit. But when an old R-22 unit needs a compressor or a refrigerant repair, replacement usually makes more sense, because R-22 is no longer produced and service refrigerant is expensive.
See current units: GE Zoneline and Applied Comfort.
Send the old unit's model number, the voltage, and the quantity through the contact form or call 800-866-1210 for pricing and availability.