High Efficiency, Better Impact: Bosch Launches IDS Family Heat Pumps with Low-GWP R-454B Refrigerant

The Inverter Ducted Split (IDS) heat pump line offers maximum comfort, minimal energy use and a gentler environmental impact due to A2L refrigerant R-454B

Bosch Home Comfort, a leading source of high-quality heating, cooling and hot water systems, announces the market launch of its Inverter Ducted Split (IDS) Family (R-454B Version) heat pump product line. Equipped with R-454B refrigerant, the newest IDS Family products meet the criteria for a lower global warming potential (low-GWP) A2L refrigerant.

“Our inverter heat pumps are known for providing quicker, quieter, steadier and more efficient heating and cooling – and with the introduction of the low-GWP R454B refrigerant, consumers can add a reduced carbon footprint to this list of benefits,“ said Shiyu Liu, Senior Product Manager. “This launch is the latest testament to Bosch’s commitment to leading the charge on preparing for the industry-wide shift to A2L refrigerants. We’re proud to be among pioneers advancing the industry in this direction towards a cleaner energy future, spearheading initiatives in contractor education, training, enhanced product lines and more.”

This refrigerant upgrade comes amid the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-mandated phasedown of hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants – like the R-410A refrigerant– due to their greater greenhouse gas emissions. As of January 1, 2025, all new residential and light commercial HVAC units must be manufactured with low GWP A2L refrigerants, such as R-454B.

Modulating inverter systems provide customers supremely efficient comfort by adjusting compressor capacity – smoothly ramping up production and using only the energy needed to achieve the desired temperature, resulting in reduced energy consumption and less stress on the system’s life cycle.

The IDS Family R-454B product line is comprised of the following systems:

• IDS Light, a premium inverter technology solution for warmer climates. This 15 SEER2 system delivers the steady energy use and minimal noise expected of an IDS system at an unbeatable price point.
• IDS Plus, an 18-SEER2 system that provides inverter-powered home comfort without breaking the bank. This system combines Bosch’s BOVB18 outdoor unit with its BVA20 two stage x13 ECM style air handler to balance efficiency, comfort and affordability.
• IDS Premium Connected, a 20-SEER2 system that maximizes home comfort while minimizing energy usage. Like its predecessor, the IDS Premium Connected R454B version can be used with the Bosch EasyAir app to enable in-app product registration, simplify installation and troubleshooting, remotely monitor energy usage, and send critical alerts.
• IDS Ultra, the first Bosch air-to-air heat pump designed to provide reliable, energy efficient heating even in sub-zero temperatures. This cold climate heat pump can provide 100% heating down to an outdoor temperature of 5° F at 2.1 COP and will continue to initiate heating even down to -13° F. The IDS Ultra is available up to 5-ton capacities and meets the U.S. Department of Energy’s Cold Climate Challenge.
• BGH96 Gas Furnace, now compatible with the R-454B IDS Family products/systems, delivers 96% Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) and is operational with low-global warming potential refrigerants. The BGH96 is a dual fuel system, bringing the ideal solution for comfort and efficiency across seasonal weather changes.
• Cased Coils, which are air source heat pump and geothermal accessories from Bosch. The latest Bosch Cased Coil and Uncased Coil units (BMAC)are compatible with A2L refrigerant R-454B IDS solutions and continue to deliver unmatched performance and efficiency levels.
• R-454B Air Handler Units, which are available for each system type: the BIVA15, BIWA16, and BICA16 for IDS Light; the BIVA20 for IDS Plus and IDS Premium Connected; and the BIVA IDS Ultra air handler.

Bosch’s IDS Family heat pumps featuring the low-GWP R-454B refrigerant are available for purchase now. For more information on the IDS Family and other Bosch Home Comfort solutions, please visit: https://www.boschhomecomfort.com/us/en/ocs/residential/inverter-ducted-split-ids-heat-pump1098929-c/