Did you know that since the 1970s, a huge ozone hole above Antarctica has been opening every spring? What’s more, some areas of this hole showed a depletion of the ozone levels by as much as 65%!
Researchers also found that the hole grew to a size as big as North America. That’s about 25 million square kilometers!
The main culprits, according to scientists, are chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), particularly hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). These include the R-22 refrigerant used by most air conditioners back then.
Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has ordered the R-22 phase-out. As of January 01, 2020, it’s illegal to produce or import most HCFCs, including the R-22 Freon.
The question is, what does this ban have to do with you as a regular HVAC user? What is Freon anyway?
We’ll answer all these questions (and more), so go ahead and read until the end!
What Is R-22 Refrigerant?
R-22 is the most common form of the HCFC-22 chemical, a type of Class II ozone-depleting substance. You likely know R-22 through the brand name “Freon”.
As a refrigerant, HCFC-22 is the chemical that heats or cools the air that HVAC systems produce. When this fluid passes through the parts of the HVAC unit, it changes into either liquid or gas.
These transformations then make the refrigerant hot or cold. These changes make the chemical quick to absorb or radiate heat from the passing air. This is how your HVAC system cools or heats your home.
R-22 was the most common type of refrigerant used in HVAC equipment up until January 01, 2010. At this point, the EPA banned its production, import, and use except for existing equipment.
Meaning, if you have an HVAC system manufactured before January 01, 2010, then it likely uses R-22.
Determining What Type of Refrigerant Your HVAC System Uses
If you’re unsure of your HVAC unit’s manufacturing date, check the label on the compressor. This is the part usually installed outside of the home. The label will clearly tell you if it uses R-22 (HCFC-22) or R-410A (the refrigerant used in newer units).
What’s in Store for Homeowners With R-22 Air Conditioners
The January 2010 ban still allowed the production and use of HCFC-22 for existing units. This exception lasted up until December 31, 2019. This is how owners of HVAC systems that made use of R-22 were still able to get their units recharged.
However, as of January 01, 2020, the EPA has completely banned the production and use of HCFC-22. HVAC systems that still use R-22 would have to rely on “recycled” or “stockpiled” R-22 supply.
If you still have an R-22 AC unit, then you can expect higher refrigerant “recharge” costs. After all, the EPA ban means that the R-22 will become even scarcer than it already is. This scarcity will then drive up the cost of HVAC refrigerant “recharges”.
In most cases, air conditioners need a refrigerant charge due to leaks. One solid sign that you have a leaking refrigerant is if your AC unit freezes up. An HVAC technician needs to seal this leak and then top up the refrigerant to make your AC work again.
However, now that the R-22 ban is in place, expect this HVAC repair job to be more expensive.
What You Can Do Now
Having an R-22 HVAC unit doesn’t automatically mean you need a new system right away. Again, the law still allows the use of such equipment. If you can’t replace your current HVAC system at the moment, then make sure you at least do the following.
Regular HVAC Maintenance
You can prevent refrigerant leaks in the first place through proper HVAC maintenance. Many leaks occur due to corrosion, which can result from dirt and debris accumulation. Cleaning evaporator and condenser coils regularly can help keep corrosion at bay.
Prompt Repairs for Potential Refrigerant Leaks
Not enough cool air, frozen coils, and weird sounds are symptoms of refrigerant leaks. If you notice these signs of HVAC trouble, have a licensed HVAC technician inspect your unit ASAP. It’s possible that there’s only a tiny leak that the technician can still seal and repair.
Prompt repairs can prevent more of the pricey R-22 refrigerant from leaking out. This can then help extend the life of your R-22 air conditioning unit.
The Best Way to Address the R-22 Phase-Out
Granted, air conditioners can last between 15 to 20 years. This is also one of the reasons that the HCFC-22 ban still allows for the use of “recycled” R-22.
While you can still use your R-22 AC despite the ban, it doesn’t mean that you should. Especially not if your current air conditioner is more than a decade old. Aside from likely being an R-22 user, such old units are more prone to breakdowns.
Over time, the repairs for these HVAC problems will add up to a considerable amount. The repair costs could be so high that it makes more sense to just get a new HVAC unit.
Besides, older HVAC models aren’t as energy-efficient as the more modern units. By replacing your R-22 HVAC unit with an energy-efficient model, you can save 20% to 40% on cooling costs. These huge savings should be enough to make you consider getting a new HVAC system.
Time for a Change
As you can see, the R-22 refrigerant ban brings with it a host of changes that could affect your life as an HVAC owner. Despite its financial implications, however, this ban is actually great for the environment. That’s why as early as now, you should consider swapping your old R-22-powered HVAC unit.
Ready to invest in an eco-friendlier, more energy-efficient HVAC system? Then let our team here at P & M Air Conditioning and Heating help! Connect with us now so we can discuss your new heating and cooling options.