Can you still use R-22 refrigerant?
The short answer is no, you can no longer use R-22 refrigerant in most new air conditioning and refrigeration equipment. R-22, also known as Freon, is being phased out due to its harmful environmental impact. However, there are some exceptions and considerations around the continued use of R-22 that are important to understand.
The Phaseout of R-22 Refrigerant
R-22 is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) refrigerant that was commonly used in air conditioning and refrigeration systems for decades. However, R-22 has been found to deplete the ozone layer, contributing to climate change. As a result, the production and import of R-22 has been gradually phased out under the Montreal Protocol, an international agreement to protect the ozone layer.
In the United States, the phaseout of R-22 began in 2010, when the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) prohibited the use of R-22 in new equipment. By 2020, the production and import of R-22 was completely banned, with some limited exceptions. This means that you can no longer purchase new air conditioning or refrigeration equipment that uses R-22 as the refrigerant.
Continued Use of Existing R-22 Equipment
While the production and import of R-22 has been banned, the EPA does allow the continued use of existing R-22 equipment, as long as the refrigerant is properly recovered and recycled. Homeowners and businesses with existing R-22 systems can continue to use and service those systems, but they may face challenges in obtaining R-22 refrigerant as supplies dwindle.
- Existing R-22 equipment can be serviced and recharged with recycled or reclaimed R-22 refrigerant.
- However, the supply of R-22 is becoming increasingly limited and expensive, as new production has been banned.
- Homeowners and businesses may need to consider replacing their R-22 equipment with newer, more energy-efficient systems that use alternative refrigerants, such as R-410A.
The phaseout of R-22 is an important step in protecting the environment, but it does present some challenges for those with existing R-22 equipment. Understanding the regulations and options for continued use or replacement can help ensure that your air conditioning or refrigeration system continues to operate safely and efficiently.
How long will R-410A be available?
R-410A PHASE-DOWN TIMELINE
We will reach a 70% decrease by 2029. In 2034, we will see 80% less R-410A being produced than it is today, and the phase-down will end in 2036 with another 5% reduction.
Can R-22 still be recharged?
If you have an old air conditioning unit that utilizes R22 and it develops a leak, you can still recharge the system using R22, as it's the production and import—not the use of R22—that is banned.
Can you still use R-22 gas?
Since 1st January 2015 it have been illegal to use R22 to main or repair your air conditioning. While you can still use your air conditioning, the legislation means you can't use additional R22 Gas to maintain or repair your system. This means if you have any problems then you might be in need of new system or unit.
Is R-22 refrigerant still legal?
If you rely on a heating or cooling system that uses R22 refrigerant, an ozone-depleting substance (ODS), you may be in for a surprise during your next service visit. As of January 1, 2020, production and import of R22 refrigerant will be illegal in the United States.
Can a R-22 system be converted to R-410A?
You cannot just switch refrigerants because R410-A and R-22 have different chemical properties. R410-A operates at a higher pressure. If you put R410-A into an R-22 system, the parts will rupture due to the increased force.
What is the drop in replacement for R22?
RS-44
RS-44 is a “Drop-in” replacement for R22 providing an easy and at the same time a long term solution. Because there is no need to use expensive and hygroscopic synthetic lubricants, the risk of moisture ingress into a refrigeration system is completely avoided.
Can you still buy R-22 Freon?
On January 1, 2020, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned the production and import of R-22. But units manufactured in 2009 and earlier still use R-22 today. Its use will eventually be eliminated in the U.S., so all current and future homeowners must be prepared for the transition.
What happens if you accidentally put 410A in a R-22 system?
Putting R-410A refrigerant into an AC unit that was designed to use R-22 will cause the unit to die soon after it tries to run. Now to be fair, you could technically “retrofit” an R-22 unit to accommodate R-410A refrigerant but that would include: Replacing the condenser, compressor, evaporator and refrigerant lines.
Is Freon R22 banned?
Because R-22 depletes the ozone layer, production and import was further limited in 2010. In 2020, R-22 will no longer be produced or imported. After 2020, only recovered, recycled, or reclaimed supplies of R-22 will be available. The production (not use) of R-22 is being phased out.
How much does it cost to convert from R-22 to R-410A?
The cost to convert a central air conditioner from R-22 to R-410A can range anywhere from $2,000 to over $4,500 in the New Jersey area. The bottom line? If your AC unit is 8+ years old, it's usually not worth the cost to convert and you should just replace the entire R-22 unit with an R-410A unit.
