In 2020, the production of new R-22 refrigerant will be completely banned in the U.S. What does this mean for your HVAC system? Read on for Andersen Heating & Cooling’s guide to what you need to know about HVAC refrigerant.
What is HVAC refrigerant?
Refrigerant is the fluid that allows your air conditioner to keep your home cool and comfortable. The A/C unit uses refrigerant to move warm air out of the home and bring in cool, conditioned air. Refrigerant also removes humidity from the air. For many decades, R-22, commonly referred to as Freon, has been the industry standard for HVAC refrigerant. However, R-22 has been found to be harmful to the ozone layer, and therefore its production is being phased out by the EPA.
R-22 phase out & rising costs
Since 2010, the EPA has been gradually slowing the production of R-22 in the U.S. For the time being, it’s still legal to use R-22 in your air conditioner. However, because the supplies are diminishing, the cost of buying R-22 is continuously skyrocketing. Finding a source of Freon, much less affording it, is becoming increasingly difficult for homeowners. And it’s about to get much harder. In 2020, all production of new R-22 will be officially banned. So how do you prepare for this rapidly approaching date?
R-410A refrigerant for Charlotte homeowners
Fortunately, there’s no need for panic. While R-22 has been found to have an adverse environmental impact, R-410A is a much greener solution. R-410A contains none of the ozone depleting chemicals found in R-22, so its use is fully approved by the EPA. In addition, R-410A is far more efficient than its predecessor, so it keeps your home cooler using less energy. This not only reduces your carbon footprint, but saves you money as well. With the combined savings from reduced energy usage and lower refrigerant charge costs, R-410A is the way to go. Check the nameplate on your outdoor unit; if it says the unit uses R-22, it’s time to look at replacement options.
Call Andersen Heating & Cooling today for your air conditioner replacement!
