What is an R22 system?
R22 refrigerant is a chemical that keeps the air coming from your air conditioning system cool, so it’s unquestionably incredibly important. Most air conditioning units older than 10 years utilize an AC refrigerant called R22 that’s commonly identified as Freon*, and is noted by the EPA as HCFC-22.
Can you still buy R22 compressors?
As of January 1, 2020, production and import of R22 refrigerant will be illegal in the United States. Of course, continued use of your air conditioner (AC) or heat pump system using R22 refrigerant is allowed.
Why is R22 being phased out?
R22 is being phased out worldwide because of its harmful effects on the ozone layer. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set January 1, 2020 as the date when R22 is banned from production and importation in the United States. R22 still in use in commercial HVAC systems will not be affected.
What does R22 smell like?
R-22 Freon, like R-410A, is non-toxic and non-flammable. Although R-22 is relatively odorless, a few Freon brands do emit the faint smell of ether in high concentrations. This smell can seem slightly sweet, giving the semblance of freshly mowed grass.
Why is R22 bad for the environment?
Over the years, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found that R22 is depleting the ozone layer and is a harmful agent for the environment. The phase out of R22 production and imports started in 2003. The stock of this chemical continues to deplete rapidly, also leading to substantial increase in its prices.
How much is a lb of R22?
R22 Freon Cost Per Pound R22 Freon costs $90 to $150 per pound installed or $13 to $21 per pound wholesale. R22 refrigerant is the old standard for residential air conditioners, which is now banned and no longer produced. Older AC units can still be refilled, but R22 prices are rising as the supply decreases.
What Freon is replacing R22?
R-410A
At this point, R22 will no longer be manufactured and cannot be used as a refrigerant in new air conditioning systems. R22 is being replaced by R-410A, a safer material which is the current, compliant standard refrigerant in air conditioning equipment.