If you’re wondering what is R22 and why you should care, here’s why. R22 is a refrigerant used in heating or cooling systems. The problem is R22 properties have been determined to be ozone-depleting substances (ODS), which is why the EPA stepped in a number of years ago with a plan to eventually eliminate the use of R22. As of January 1, 2020, the production and import of R22 refrigerant became illegal in the United States. If your AC or heat pump needs a repair that involves refrigerant, you will likely have to decide between a substantial refrigerant bill or a total system replacement.
Most newer heating and cooling systems have been redesigned to accommodate R410A, a chlorine-free refrigerant. If your system was built and installed before January 2010, there’s a good chance it uses the old R22 refrigerant. The ban does not require you to replace a fully functioning R22 refrigerant AC or heat pump system; however, as your system ages, any existing stockpile supply of R22 will become more limited and the price of refrigerant will likely increase. At some point, it may be more cost effective to simply replace your system that is compliant with the new EPA law. And the added benefit is that you’re reducing ozone-depleting substances, which makes our environment a much cleaner and healthier place.
Let us help you today determine if a total system replacement is right for you. Call us at (404) 803-7471.
