Introducing Our Latest R-454B Energy Efficient HVAC Equipment | American Standard®
Learn why our newest HVAC equipment benefits both homeowners and the environment .
By Tom Moor
More homeowners are making energy efficiency and sustainability a top priority when making large purchases like a car or new HVAC system. Even if climate change isn’t your primary concern, it's likely you're focused on your family’s comfort and keeping your budget in check.
If you’re in the market for a new heating and cooling system, it’s smart to do your homework and explore your options. Finding an energy-efficient system is crucial – after all, the Department of Energy (DOE) notes that your heating and cooling system can account for nearly half of your home’s annual energy consumption.
At American Standard®, our latest line of energy-efficient HVAC products is designed with sustainability in mind, fully compliant with new refrigerant regulations, and built to help lower your energy bills. Pairing our well-engineered and trusted systems with a smart thermostat can also help you reduce energy use and lower your utility bills even further.
And here’s some more great news: Many of our AC units, heat pumps, and air handlers meet or exceed the requirements for HVAC tax credits and heat pump rebates, so you could save even more.
Why the change to a new refrigerant
American Standard’s transition to the next-generation refrigerant in newly manufactured air conditioners, heat pumps, and air handlers complies with the HVAC industry’s latest regulations requiring they use a refrigerant with a lower global warming potential (GWP).
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandated the transition to a low GWP refrigerant for all HVAC equipment manufactured in 2025 or later. American Standard® (and much of the residential HVAC industry) has chosen to move forward with R-454B, which has a reduced environmental impact when compared to previous refrigerants such as R-410A and R-22. In addition to having a lower GWP, R-454B has no ozone depletion potential (ODP).
Our goal is to enhance home comfort with greater sustainability, while maintaining our reputation for building some of the most well-engineered HVAC equipment. Many of these new products not only offer improved energy efficiency compared to previous models but also introduce innovative features for increased comfort.
Ready to learn more? Let’s get started.
AccuComfort™ Platinum 18 Variable Speed Air Conditioner (5A7V8)
The AccuComfort™ Platinum 18 Variable Speed Air Conditioner replaces the Variable Speed Platinum 17 AC unit. This new system is more environmentally friendly and energy efficient than its predecessor.
Some highlights:
- R-454B-compliant for a more sustainable future
- Up to 18.1 SEER2 rating for higher cooling efficiency
- Variable speed compressor minimizes energy usage while offering maximum comfort
- Runs anywhere from 30-100% capacity for precise temperature and humidity control
- AccuLink™ communicating technology for optimal system performance
AccuComfort™ Platinum 18 Variable Speed Heat Pump (5A6V8)
Like the Platinum 18 Variable Speed AC unit, the Platinum 18 Variable Speed Heat Pump replaces a 17 SEER2 counterpart.
Some highlights:
- R-454B-compliant for a more sustainable future
- Up to 18.1 SEER2 rating for increased cooling efficiency
- Up to 8.5 HSPF2 for heating efficiency
- Variable speed compressor, running from 25-100% capacity for precise temperature and humidity control
- AccuLink™ communicating technology for optimal system performance communicating technology for optimal system performance
Silver 5TEMC Air Handler (5TEMC)
The Silver 5TEMC Air Handler replaces the Silver TEM8 Air Handler. The new model is compatible with Platinum Variable Speed heat pumps using the newest refrigerant.
Some highlights:
- R-454B-compliant for a more sustainable future
- Variable-speed blower motor for precise heating and cooling
- Comfort-R technology for humidity control for increased comfort
- All-aluminum evaporator coil for enhanced durability
- Enhanced safety features
AccuComfort™ Platinum 20 Variable Speed Heat Pump (5A6V0)
The Platinum 20 Variable Speed Heat Pump replaces the product of the same name. The main change is the 5A6V0 unit is even more sustainable as it uses the new low-GWP refrigerant to heat and cool your home.
Some highlights:
- R-454B-compliant for a more sustainable future
- Variable speed for precise heating and cooling
- Up to 22.4 SEER2 for optimal cooling efficiency
- Up to 10.5 HSPF2 for reliable heating
- AccuLink™ communicating technology for optimal system performance communicating technology for optimal system performance
AccuComfort™ Platinum 20 Variable Speed Air Conditioner (5A7V0)
The Platinum 20 Variable Speed AC unit also replaces the product of the same name Again, the main change is the new unit is even more sustainable as it uses the new low-GWP R-454B refrigerant to cool your home.
If energy efficiency is your top priority, this family is for you. It’s the most efficient air conditioner we offer which can significantly lower your utility bills.
Some highlights:
- R-454B-compliant for a more sustainable future
- Variable speed compressor for precise cooling
- Up to 23.6 SEER2 and 14 EER2 for optimal efficiency
- AccuLink™ communicating technology for optimal system performance ™ communicating technology for optimal system performance
ForeFront™ Platinum 5TAMX Air Handler (5TAMX)
The ForeFront™ Platinum 5TAMX Air Handler replaces the ForeFront™ Platinum TAMX. This new air handler is compatible with the new, more environmentally friendly refrigerant.
Some highlights:
- R-454B compatible for a more sustainable future
- Variable speed Vortica™ blower motor for enhanced comfort
- Sweat-eliminating design for durability
- Epoxy-coated all-aluminum coil for rust resistance and durability
- AccuLink™ communicating technology for optimal system performance communicating technology for optimal system performance
Do I have to get a new air conditioner or heat pump with R-454B?
Some air conditioning and heat pump units that use the older R-410A refrigerant may still be available for a while. HVAC dealers are allowed to sell equipment that was manufactured prior to Jan. 1, 2025, before the start of 2026.
HVAC technicians will still be able to service and recharge them in the short term, but since R-410A is being phased out, it will become harder to find and more expensive over time. This could make buying a system with R-454B a more viable option.
Consider all your options carefully, as an HVAC system typically lasts about 15 years with proper maintenance.
Work with trusted HVAC professionals
If you’re in the process of replacing your HVAC system, upgrading to a more energy efficient and sustainable unit is a win for your wallet and the environment. Contact your local American Standard® dealer to hear your options and learn how a more efficient HVAC system may increase your comfort while saving you money.
For more than 100 years, we’ve made some of the most awarded, well-engineered HVAC equipment, and earned a reputation for doing things right.
Expert review by Chelsea Hudson, Product Manager, Ducted Variable Speed Outdoor
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