The End of R22 and What it Means to Your A/C

Recently we were called to a customer’s home to repair an air conditioner that was low on refrigerant. When we provided the quote to fix the unit he was, to say the least... SHOCKED.

SHOCKED because the cost of refrigerant had skyrocketed due to the EPA’s phase-out of R-22 and SHOCKED because he didn’t know about it. Well, after speaking to him I promised that I would let everyone know what was happening so they wouldn’t be caught off guard too.

You see...

In 1987 the U.S. agreed to phase out the production of products with HCFC (hydrochlorofluorocarbons), which includes R-22, a refrigerant used in many air conditioning systems. By 2010, it was banned in new systems. By 2015, the phase-out of production began, which limited supply and caused the price to climb. By 2020, R22 will no longer be produced.

So Here Are The Cold Hard Facts About R22 & How it Will Affect Your AC System (& Your Wallet) in the VERY NEAR Future:

Fact #1: The cost of the R-22 will continue to rise, as we get closer to the ban in 2020.

Fact #2: A refrigerant leak is a symptom of overall system failure. Even though a leak can be repaired, a new leak is likely to occur. Which means sooner rather than later the system will have to be replaced.

Fact #3: After 2020 R-22 will no longer be manufactured and only remaining supply will be available (which means we have no idea how much it will cost).

What can you do if your system uses R-22?

#1 Wait and hope your system doesn’t breakdown, knowing you’ll have to replace it later.

#2 Upgrade to a new coolant (there are pros & cons to this option).

#3 Replace your system with a new, EPA-friendly, high-efficiency system.

#4 Schedule a No-Cost Evaluation. We will come to your home, look over your system, go over your options and provide you with the information you need to make the best decision for your situation.