As the phaseout of R22 refrigerant continues, HVAC professionals and homeowners alike need to be informed about what this means for their systems. R22, also known as Freon, has been a popular refrigerant used in air conditioning systems for decades. However, due to its harmful impact on the environment, the production and import of R22 have been heavily regulated and phased out in recent years.
Learn How the r22 Refrigerant Ban Effects You
Family Air is here to enlighten you on the lowdown on R22 refrigerant, including why it’s being phased out, how it impacts your HVAC system, and what you need to know as a homeowner or HVAC professional. From understanding the alternatives to navigating the regulations surrounding R22, we will cover everything you need to know to ensure your system stays running smoothly and efficiently in the face of the R22 phaseout.
What is R22 Refrigerant?
R22 Refrigerant is a type of refrigerant commonly used in air conditioning systems. It is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) with ozone depletion potential. Due to its harmful environmental effects, the production and import of R22 Refrigerant have been phased out in many countries. This phase-out is part of an international effort to protect the ozone layer and slow down climate change.
As a result, many air conditioning systems that previously used R22 Refrigerant are now being retrofitted or replaced with more environmentally friendly alternatives. Homeowners and businesses need to be aware of the phase-out schedule for R22 Refrigerant to avoid potential disruptions in their cooling systems.
Phasing Out of R22
If your current heating or cooling system is over ten years old, there is a good chance that it uses R22 refrigerant. R22 is an ozone-depleting substance (ODS). Your equipment may have a label that identifies the type of refrigerant type used, but it’s a good idea to ask your licensed professional AC or heat pump dealer for confirmation.As of January 1, 2020, the production and import of R22 refrigerant will be illegal in the United States. Of course, continued use of your air conditioner/heat pump system using R22 refrigerant is allowed.
The ban doesn’t require you to replace a functioning, R22 refrigerant AC or heat pump system. However, you may need to evaluate your options if your air conditioning or heat pump system fails or requires emergency repairs. You may have to decide between a hefty refrigerant bill and a system replacement.
Repair Costs of HVAC Systems Using R22
The price of R22 refrigerant is in shrinking supply which makes it very expensive. As the supply becomes limited, you may end up paying more for a repair that requires R22 refrigerant than a down payment on a new heat pump or AC system. If your technician suspects a leak, they should locate and repair the refrigerant leak instead of simply “topping off” a leaking system.
Most air conditioning systems built before 2010 use R22 refrigerant. The limited supply of R22 is driving up the cost, making it a scarce and expensive commodity. Because of this, it is important to be proactive in maintaining your older system to avoid costly repairs and replacements in the future.
If your technician detects a leak in your system, it is important to have it repaired promptly. Simply topping off the refrigerant without fixing the leak will only result in continued loss of refrigerant and further damage to your system. In the long run, this will end up costing you more money in repairs and potentially a premature replacement of your HVAC system.
By addressing any leaks in your system and properly maintaining it, you can extend the life of your air conditioning unit and save money in the long term. It may be worth considering upgrading to a newer, more efficient system that uses environmentally friendly refrigerants to avoid future headaches and expenses.
Replacing Your Outdated HVAC
If your unit is over ten years old, you need to start looking at replacing it before it quits. Take the time to evaluate energy efficiencies, product reviews and potential costs of the latest replacements available. Most likely, there are new features and benefits available today that weren’t available when your current system was installed.
If paying for a new system is a concern, Family Air can offer affordable financing options with low monthly payments. If you qualify, financing may help you fit a new HCAC system into your budget without breaking the bank.
Whatever option you choose, make sure you use a licensed professional such as Family Air to provide routine maintenance. Professional maintenance helps your heating and cooling system to operate at its designed efficiency level and alerts you to small, fixable issues before they become expensive problems.
Make Family Air Your First Choice for Replacing Your Old HVAC in Tucson
When it comes to replacing your old HVAC system in Tucson, Family Air should be your first choice. With years of experience in the industry, we are known for their quality workmanship and excellent customer service. Family Air understands the importance of a properly functioning HVAC system, especially in the hot Arizona climate.
We offer a wide range of services, from installation to maintenance and repairs, ensuring that your system runs efficiently and reliably. Their team of skilled technicians is dedicated to providing top-notch service and making sure that your home stays comfortable all year round. Don’t settle for anything less than the best when it comes to your HVAC system – choose Family Air for all your heating and cooling needs in Tucson.
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