F-Gas and R32 regulation in 2026: what changes for your air conditioning

Do you hear about R32 bans, refrigerants or "F-Gas" without really knowing what it all means? Rest assured: R32 is not banned overnight. But the regulation is tightening progressively, and it is worth understanding the timeline before you invest.

What is F-Gas?

The European regulation known as F-Gas aims to reduce the use of fluorinated greenhouse gases used as refrigerants. The idea: to progressively phase out the refrigerants most harmful to the climate, measured by their GWP (global warming potential, or PRG in French).

Where does R32 stand in 2026?

R32 (GWP of 675) remains authorised in 2026 for new equipment. It is currently the most widespread refrigerant in residential air conditioners and heat pumps. But the timeline is tightening:

• Since 1 January 2025, monosplits below 12 kW containing a refrigerant with a GWP greater than 750 have been banned from sale.
• R32 will be banned for splits with a capacity of 12 kW or less from 2029.

R410A, reaching its regulatory end of life

Older and far more harmful to the climate, R410A is already largely excluded from new systems. If your installation still runs on R410A, it remains usable, but its maintenance and, above all, refrigerant top-ups are becoming more complex and costly.

Towards the refrigerants of the future

By 2027-2030, R32 will progressively give way to refrigerants with a very low impact, such as R290 (propane), whose GWP is almost nil. We cover this topic in our dedicated article on R290, the refrigerant of the future.

What this means for you

• Before buying: check the appliance's refrigerant and its regulatory longevity.
• For maintenance: entrust your installation to a certified professional, the only one authorised to handle these refrigerants. It is also a legal obligation.
• To invest with confidence: choose equipment designed to last well beyond the upcoming deadlines.

Unsure about your air conditioner's refrigerant or about the right choice for a new project? The Proclimo experts are here to advise you.