EPA Certification Updates for 2025–2026

As the HVAC industry continues to evolve, so do the federal requirements for handling refrigerants safely and responsibly. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced major updates to Section 608 certification regulations, set to take full effect in 2025 and 2026. These changes are part of the broader effort to reduce the environmental impact of high-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants and prepare the workforce for a more sustainable future.

Starting in January 2025, technicians will be required to demonstrate greater knowledge of low-GWP refrigerants, including mildly flammable A2L refrigerants such as R-32 and R-454B. The certification exam content is being updated to reflect new safety standards, recovery procedures, and equipment handling requirements. By 2026, all new systems must comply with stricter EPA refrigerant guidelines, and HVAC professionals will need to be properly trained and certified to work with these next-generation refrigerants.

For students and current technicians alike, this is the time to update your certifications, refresh your knowledge, and ensure you’re prepared to meet the upcoming industry standards. At Virginia Mechanical Trade Institute (VMTI), we’re already integrating these updates into our training programs to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you’re enrolling for the first time or returning for a certification upgrade, we’re here to support your professional growth.