R‑410A to R‑454B: air conditioners in Quebec co-ownership

The transition from R‑410A to refrigerants with lower global warming potential, such as R‑454B, is accelerating. For a divided co-ownership in Montreal or on the South Shore, this affects both your central air conditioners and wall-mounted units in private portions. What should your board of directors plan to limit breakdowns, extra costs and risks? Here is a practical guide (up to date as of 2026-07-27).

What is changing with the phase-out of R‑410A

• R‑410A is an HFC with a high GWP. Its gradual phase-out is reducing availability, increasing costs and making repairs more complex.
• Manufacturers are moving to lower-GWP “A2L” refrigerants, particularly R‑454B. These fluids are classified as mildly flammable and require adapted installation, ventilation and detection measures.
• In Quebec, the use, recovery and disposal of halocarbons are governed by the Regulation respecting halocarbons (LégisQuébec, Q‑2, r. 29). The Construction Code (B‑1.1, r. 2) and applicable technical standards guide system design and safety.

In practical terms, repairing an R‑410A unit “like for like” will become less viable. Replacing it with an R‑454B model will require checking the compatibility of the ducts, line-set lengths, safety devices and technical spaces. Choosing a contractor that holds the appropriate Regie du batiment du Quebec (RBQ) licences is essential.

• Useful references:
  • LégisQuébec – Regulation respecting halocarbons: https://www.legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca/fr/document/rc/Q-2, r. 29
  • LégisQuébec – Construction Code (B‑1.1, r. 2): https://www.legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca/fr/document/cr/B-1.1, r. 2
  • RBQ – Home page (licences and safety): https://www.rbq.gouv.qc.ca/

Practical impacts for your syndicate and air conditioners

Every building has its own characteristics. In many co-ownerships, air conditioners are:

• collective equipment serving common portions (e.g., corridors and exercise rooms),
• individual units in private portions (wall-mounted appliances or split systems on balconies or roofs),
• or a combination of both, depending on the declaration of co-ownership and the by-laws of the immovable.

Here are the issues to clarify promptly:

• Equipment inventory and age: list the R‑410A models, their age, serial numbers, location (roof, mechanical room or balcony) and condition.
• Responsibilities and access: check the declaration of co-ownership and by-laws to determine who is responsible (co-owner or syndicate), and what rules apply to access to roofs and supports in common portions.
• Repairs versus replacements: assess the total cost of ownership. Paying for expensive R‑410A recharges may be a poor choice if the unit is approaching the end of its service life.
• A2L safety: certain technical rooms require suitable ventilation and detectors for A2L refrigerants; an assessment by a qualified contractor is necessary.

Operating tip: record these items in the maintenance logbook (EUC) and link them to the preventive maintenance schedule. One syndicate we support reduced summer breakdowns simply by moving spring inspections earlier and standardizing filters and leak checks.

To learn more about operational management and maintenance planning, see our operations management services and browse the blog for related guides.

A 6-step transition plan for your board

A clear plan makes decisions easier for the board and at the annual general meeting, and limits surprises for co-owners.

1) Map your HVAC assets

• Inventory all R‑410A units and related components (refrigerant lines, supports, drain pans, electrical supply and clearances).
• Record physical constraints: height, access, minimum required clearances, room ventilation and nearby combustible materials.
• Enter this data in the maintenance logbook and link it to equipment records with photos.

2) Technical and compliance analysis

• Obtain an assessment from an air-conditioning contractor holding an appropriate RBQ licence, and request a written opinion on the feasibility of migrating to R‑454B for each type of unit.
• Require compliance with the applicable requirements of the Construction Code and the environmental framework governing halocarbons. Keep commissioning certificates and test reports.

3) Repair-or-replace strategy and standardization

• Set criteria: age, reliability, life-cycle costs, parts availability, noise and energy efficiency.
• Where possible, favour standardizing models to simplify maintenance and parts inventory.
• For private portions, specify in the by-laws the permitted models, installation requirements (supports, condensate drainage and gas shut-off), and proof of maintenance to be provided to the syndicate.

4) Tendering and phased execution

• Issue a structured call for tenders (scope, specifications, schedule, manufacturer warranties, proof of licences and insurance, and management of recovered halocarbons).
• Spread replacements over phases to level out the impact on common expenses and avoid unavailability during a heat wave.
• Plan access logistics: roofs, elevators, protection of common portions and work hours.

5) Safety, testing and documentation

• For A2L systems, require the accessories specified by manufacturers (detection, ventilation, circuit breakers and safety instructions) and appropriate signage in technical rooms.
• Document the recovery and shipment of halocarbons in accordance with the provincial regulation. Archive shipping documents and certificates.
• At the end of the project, obtain the manuals, model numbers, maintenance logbook updates and the commissioning report.

6) Board–co-owner communication and decisions at the AGM

• Provide information early: a summary of the issues, technical comparisons (R‑410A versus R‑454B), the schedule and impacts.
• If the by-laws of the immovable must be amended (permitted models, nuisances or access), place the item on the agenda, hold a vote at the AGM and record everything in the minutes.
• When reselling condos, recent, well-maintained equipment reduces complications during the seller’s declarations; see the OACIQ guidelines.

To structure the tendering process and follow-up, also see our administrative management services.

Transition costs, budgeting and financing

Without giving specific amounts, keep these financial principles in mind:

• Budget in advance: include a line in the operating budget for diagnostics and minor repairs, and plan major replacements through the contingency fund.
• Spread out the work: carrying it out in waves (e.g., 20‑30 % of units per year) smooths the impact on assessments and reduces the risk of supply disruptions.
• Pool purchases: grouping purchases of standardized models often improves procurement terms and installation quality.
• Allow for related costs: roof supports, electrical work, fire-stopping, ventilation upgrades, access and protection of common portions.

Your contingency fund study and maintenance logbook should now take into account the life cycles specific to A2L systems. Bill 16 has reinforced the importance of these tools for responsible planning; remember to update these documents after each phase of the work. For tracking and reporting methods for the board, see our financial management services.

Lastly, consult specialized co-ownership sources such as the RGCQ for governance and maintenance best practices. And when comparing technical opinions, require the professionals involved to cite the relevant requirements of the Construction Code and the Regulation respecting halocarbons from LégisQuébec.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

• Can an R‑410A system still be recharged?
  Yes, if the regulations and manufacturer permit it, and if a qualified contractor properly recovers and manages the halocarbon. However, rising costs and scarce parts often make planned replacement preferable.

• Is R‑454B “dangerous” because it is A2L?
  A2L means mildly flammable, with a higher ignition energy than propane gas. When installed according to the standards, with the required ventilation and devices, the risk is controlled. A professional assessment and compliance with the Construction Code are essential.

• Does everything need to be replaced immediately?
  No. Prioritize units at the end of their service life, leaking units or units that are critical to comfort. The others can be incorporated into a multi-year phasing plan consistent with your maintenance logbook and contingency fund.

• Who pays: the syndicate or the co-owner?
  That depends on your declaration of co-ownership and the by-laws of the immovable. Equipment in private portions is often the co-owner’s responsibility; systems in common portions are the syndicate’s responsibility. Confirm this before making a decision and record any directive in the minutes.

• Do we need to vote at the AGM?
  Major expenditures, the adoption of installation by-laws or the standardization of models may require a vote. Prepare a clear summary of the technical and budgetary impacts to support quorum and an informed vote.

This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a lawyer or notary for your situation.

Do you manage a co-ownership in Quebec? Discover our plans or contact us to assess your needs.