Freon - R22

The End of R-22 and What it Means to Your AC

In 1987 the U.S. agreed to phase out the production of products with HCFC (hydrochlorofluorocarbons), which includes R22, a refrigerant used in many air conditioning systems. By 2010, it was banned in new systems. By 2015, the phase-out of production began, which limited supply and caused the price to climb. As of 2020, R22 is no longer being produced.

The Cold Hard Facts About R-22 & How it Will Affect Your AC System
(& Your Wallet) in the VERY NEAR Future:

Fact #1: The cost of the R22 is skyrocketing. We just had an increase of over 800%!

Fact #2: A refrigerant leak is a symptom of overall system failure. Even though a leak can be repaired, a new leak is likely to occur. Which means sooner rather than later the system will have to be replaced.

Fact #3: Only remaining supplies are available (and we are having a harder time getting it).

How do you know if your system uses R-22?

Look for the sticker on the side of the outdoor unit, if it says either R22 or HCFS-22 then it uses this refrigerant and will be affected by the ban (if your system was manufactured after 2010 it will not use this refrigerant).

What can you do if your system uses R-22?

#1 Wait and hope your system doesn’t breakdown, knowing you’ll have to replace it later.

#2 Upgrade to a new coolant (there are pros & cons to this option so please talk to us before you do it - by the way we will do this for NO COST).

#3 Replace your system with a new, EPA-friendly, high-efficiency system.

#4 Schedule a No-Cost Evaluation. We will come to your home, look over your system, go over your options and provide you with the information you need to make the best decision for your situation. By the way, depending on the condition of your system you may not have to replace it. If this is the case, we will let you know and provide you information on how to protect the system to keep it running problem free for as long as possible.