What Does the Ban of R22 Freon Mean for Your Aging AC System

As summer approaches, it’s time to prepare your home for the hot weather. The air conditioning system is essential to a comfortable home during summer. However, if your AC system is over ten years old, you may be in for a surprise.

The refrigerant used in these older systems, R22 Freon, has been phased out due to its harmful environmental effects. In this blog post, we will discuss the implications of the R22 ban on your aging AC system and what you need to do if your system still requires R22.

Why R-22 Freon Has Been Banned

R22 is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) that is harmful to the environment. Its use contributes to the depletion of the ozone layer, which can cause a range of health problems. Due to this, the EPA banned the production and import of R22 Freon on January 1, 2020. If your AC system still uses R22 Freon, you'll have to switch to an alternative, more environmentally friendly coolant.

Benefits of R410A Coolant

R410A is a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC), which is non-toxic and non-flammable and produces lower emissions than R22. This refrigerant also provides better cooling capacity, leading to more energy-efficient and cost-effective systems. Moreover, manufacturers have designed newer equipment to operate on this refrigerant, thus promoting a more sustainable future.

What If My System Still Requires R-22?

If your AC system still uses R22 Freon, it may not perform as well as it used to. Since the ban on R22 Freon went into effect, it became more expensive and harder to find. Because of this, many HVAC service providers have stopped providing maintenance on AC systems that still use R22 Freon. During the summer or spring, you might experience a breakdown, leaving you no air conditioning in a heatwave.

Plus, if your AC system is old, it will likely develop leaks resulting from the chemicals in the coolant, which can lead to costly repairs.

So, what does this mean for you and your aging AC system? If your AC system still uses R22 Freon, it would be an excellent time to have it evaluated and possibly replaced. Installing a new air conditioning system can be costly but worth the investment in the long run.

By replacing your old AC system, you can lower your cooling costs, save money on energy bills, help the environment, and experience much better performance.

While replacing your old AC system might seem daunting and expensive, it is essential for the well-being of your family, your wallet, and the environment. Contact our HVAC professionals at Prestige Air Heating & Cooling, LLC to discuss your replacement options. (973) 755-2210