We can handle all types of air conditioning repair in Dunedin, FL whenever our customers have cooling trouble. We’d like to think there’s nothing we can’t repair, but of course there are times when an AC is too old and worn for a repair to be worth it. In those cases, the best step is to have a new air conditioning system installed.
There is one repair that we can’t do. Actually, a repair we’re not allowed to do, and that is fix an old R-22 air conditioner that has a refrigerant leak. This is why we strongly recommend that our customers with R-22 air conditioners replace outdated AC units as soon as possible.
Aren’t sure what we mean by an “R-22 air conditioner”? We’ll explain more below.
What Is R-22 Refrigerant and Why Is It Being Phased Out?
R-22 is a type of refrigerant blend (a hydrochlorofluorocarbon) that’s been used in air conditioners and other refrigeration equipment for many decades. You may know it better as Freon, which is its brand name. The word Freon is so well-known that it gets applied to all types of refrigerants, which can get confusing for a non-professional. We’ll stick to R-22 from here.
Because R-22 releases ozone-depleting emissions, it has been gradually phased out of production and use in the US and the rest of the world. This phase-out was completed in January 2022. At this point, R-22 can no longer be manufactured in the US, and HVAC technicians are not permitted to use the remaining stockpiles of the refrigerant or recycled R-22 to repair malfunctioning air conditioners or heat pumps.
So the lowdown is that if you have an air conditioning system that uses R-22, we can’t fix it if it starts leaking.
How to Tell If Your Air Conditioner Uses R-22 Refrigerant
This is easy. First, if your AC is less than 10 years old, it wasn’t manufactured to use R-22. As part of the phase-out, the US Environmental Protection Agency banned the manufacture and installation of new R-22 air conditioners and heat pumps in 2010. But the manufacture of R-22 air conditioners was already slowing down before this, so even if you have a 15-year-old AC, it probably doesn’t use R-22.
You can check the outside cabinet to find out for certain. On the information plate on the condenser, you’ll find a listing for the refrigerant. If it says “R-22,” “HCFC-22,” or just “22,” you’ve got an outdated AC. If it says “R-410A,” you’re in good shape (as far as refrigerants go at least).
Upgrading from an R-22 Air Conditioner: What Are Your Options
Even if you could have your R-22 air conditioner repaired, you’re still much better off replacing it. It’s probably already too old a system, and R-22 is a less energy-efficient refrigerant than the blend that replaced it, R-410A (also called by its brand name, Puron). R-410A is better for the environment and safer for you and your family. Upgrading also helps you avoid common HVAC mistakes homeowners make.
Making the upgrade to a new R-410A air conditioning system is simple when you work with us. We offer a 100% money-back guarantee within 12 months for new AC Installation, and your new system won’t leave you wondering how long your AC will last.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What is R-22 refrigerant and why is it being phased out?
Answer: R-22, also known as Freon, is an older refrigerant once commonly used in residential air conditioners. It has been phased out because it contributes to ozone depletion. Production and import have been discontinued, which has made it increasingly expensive and difficult to obtain for older systems.
Question: Can I still repair an air conditioner that uses R-22?
Answer: Yes, repairs are still possible, but recharging a system with R-22 can be costly due to limited supply. Since the refrigerant is no longer produced, prices continue to rise. In many cases, investing in a new system may be more cost effective than repairing an aging unit.
Question: How do I know if my air conditioner uses R-22?
Answer: You can check the manufacturer’s label on the outdoor unit, which typically lists the refrigerant type. Systems installed before 2010 are more likely to use R-22. A licensed HVAC professional can also confirm the refrigerant during a service visit.
Question: Should I replace my R-22 air conditioner now or wait?
Answer: If your system is older and requires frequent repairs, upgrading may be the smarter long term choice. New air conditioners use modern refrigerants and offer improved energy efficiency, which can lower utility bills and reduce the risk of expensive refrigerant replacements.
Question: What are the benefits of upgrading from an R-22 system?
Answer: Upgrading provides better energy efficiency, improved cooling performance, and compliance with current environmental regulations. New systems use approved refrigerants that are more readily available, helping homeowners avoid rising costs and supply shortages associated with R-22.
Call on The A/C Guy of Tampa Bay Inc for a new air conditioning installation. Serving our Tampa Bay family with integrity and honor.