Can You Still Buy R404A in 2026? The UK Service Ban Explained

You can still buy R404A in the UK in 2026, but only reclaimed or recycled R404A may be used to service existing equipment – virgin (newly produced) R404A is banned for servicing because its GWP of 3,922 exceeds the 2,500 threshold. The reclaimed allowance runs until 1 January 2030. This guide explains exactly what is and is not permitted, and how to keep your systems running compliantly.

The 2026 rule in plain terms

From 1 January 2026, it is prohibited to use virgin refrigerant with a GWP of 2,500 or above to service or maintain stationary refrigeration. R404A (GWP 3,922) is squarely affected. The intent is to stop topping systems up with high-GWP virgin gas while still allowing operators time to retrofit or replace equipment.

What you can and cannot do

Action	Allowed in 2026?
Service existing R404A kit with reclaimed/recycled gas	Yes – until 1 Jan 2030
Service with virgin R404A	No
Keep running an existing R404A system	Yes
Install new R404A equipment	No (effectively ended)
Retrofit to a lower-GWP drop-in	Yes – recommended

Your three compliant options

1. Run on reclaimed R404A to 2030: source only reclaimed gas, expect rising prices as supply tightens, and plan your exit.
2. Retrofit to a drop-in: R448A, R449A, R452A or R407F can replace R404A in many systems with the right oil and component checks. See our R404A phase-out guide.
3. Replace the system: new equipment on R290, CO2 or R454B removes quota risk entirely.

Why reclaimed gas matters

Reclaimed refrigerant is recovered from existing systems and reprocessed to specification. Using it keeps high-GWP gas in a closed loop rather than producing new virgin supply, which is exactly what the regulation encourages. Always ensure reclaimed R404A is properly certified and labelled.

Buying refrigerant compliantly

Refrigerant Gas Supplies Ltd supplies F-Gas compliant refrigerant to certified UK engineers, including R404A for servicing existing systems, plus lower-GWP options such as R407C and R32. F-Gas certification is required to purchase. For the full regulatory picture, read our 2026 F-Gas changes guide.

Frequently asked questions

Can you still buy R404A in 2026?

Yes, but only reclaimed or recycled R404A may be used to service existing equipment until 1 January 2030. Virgin R404A is banned for servicing because its GWP of 3,922 exceeds the 2,500 threshold.

Is it illegal to use R404A now?

It is not illegal to run an existing R404A system. It is illegal to service it with virgin R404A from 2026. Reclaimed gas remains permitted for servicing until 2030.

What can I replace R404A with?

Common drop-in replacements include R448A, R449A, R452A and R407F. For new systems, R290 and CO2 offer ultra-low GWP solutions.

Do I need F-Gas certification to buy R404A?

Yes. Bulk fluorinated refrigerant, including R404A, may only be sold to F-Gas certified businesses.