The R-22 Phase Out and What it Means for You
2020 brought a lot of changes to life, but one that may have been missed in the general mayhem was the final discontinuation of the R-22 refrigerant, commonly referred to as freon (formerly an industry standard). As of January 1, 2020, in accordance with the EPA directive, the production and import of this substance—which is the fluid that flows through the coils to cool your home—was banned.
This change was a long time coming. R-22, a hydrochlorofluorocarbon, was identified in the 1980s as being detrimental to the earth’s ozone layer, and in January of 2010 a long-range plan was implemented to phase it out and eliminate its use in the US. It is probably not part of the typical dinnertime conversation for the average homeowner, so one might be entirely surprised during a service visit to learn about these developments. Here are some things you should know about the phase out:
How do I know what type of coolant is used in my home?
This information can often be found on the manufacturer’s plate on your outside condensing unit. If you have trouble finding it, your service professional can be of assistance.
Can I continue to use my current air conditioning unit if it uses R-22?
Yes, you can continue to use the unit and the coolant within it, despite the ban. However, since the fluid is no longer manufactured, it is available only through aftermarket use and harvesting from older units. This scarcity drives up the cost of the fluid to a point where adding more may be prohibitively expensive.
Should I be aware of any special circumstances when repairing and maintaining my existing unit?
If you have an older unit that uses R-22 it is even more important to engage in regular maintenance. This is helpful for both the environment and your pocketbook. Identifying leaks and repairing them promptly will ensure the precious fluid will not be lost. Additionally, actively pursuing the underlying issues for low fluid levels rather than just topping them off is preferred.
Can I just replace my old refrigerant with the new version?
Sadly, no. The chemical qualities of the replacement fluid is different enough that a simple switch cannot be made.
Should I consider replacing my air conditioner?
Depending on the age and the efficiency of your current unit it may make sense to consider upgrading to a new unit rather than face increasingly costly repairs. Chances are good that a new air conditioner will offer you a good return on your investment with increased efficiency and savings on utility bills.
If you have additional questions about R-22 and how it affects your cooling system, feel free to give us a call. We will be happy to assess your situation and offer our recommendations for what makes the most sense for your home and budget.