R-22 Refrigerant: What You Need to Know About Freon™

What is R-22 Refrigerant?

R-22 refrigerant, a type of hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC), has been widely used in cooling systems and is also known by its trade name, R-22 Freon™. It consists of hydrogen, chlorine, fluorine, and carbon atoms.

However, as a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC), it poses significant environmental risks which led to its phase-out in favor of more eco-friendly alternatives. In 2010, manufacturers were prohibited from producing new refrigerant with R-22 refrigerant and in 2020 the U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned the production and import of this refrigerant.

This phase-out is a direct result of international agreements like the Montreal Protocol, which aim to mitigate environmental damage. As a responsible HVAC provider, Carrier is dedicated to aiding this transition and supporting homeowners in adapting to these changes.

R-22 has a detrimental impact on the environment. It is classified as an ozone-depleting substance (ODS) and contributes to the depletion of the Earth's ozone layer. The chlorine in R-22 can break down ozone molecules, leading to the thinning of the ozone layer. Due to these harmful effects, the production and importation of R-22 have been phased out in many countries, including the United States. Consequently, the use of R-22 in new cooling systems is prohibited. More environmentally friendly refrigerants, such as R-454B, are now being used as replacements.

Why is R-22 Freon™ Being Phased Out?

The phase-out of R-22 Freon™ refrigerant stems from regulations enforced by the EPA aimed at protecting the environment and public health. Understanding these reasons is crucial for homeowners and HVAC system owners.

The EPA has imposed strict regulations to limit the use of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) like R-22 Freon™ due to their harmful effects on the ozone layer and their contribution to global warming. Ozone depletion is a significant concern because the ozone layer shields the Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. HCFCs like R-22 deplete the ozone layer, allowing more UV rays to reach the Earth's surface, which can lead to increased rates of skin cancer, eye cataracts, and other health issues.

Moreover, R-22 has a high Global Warming Potential (GWP) compared to other refrigerants. GWP measures a substance's heat-trapping ability in the atmosphere over a specific period. HCFCs like R-22 significantly contribute to climate change and the greenhouse effect.

The phase-out of R-22 refrigerant impacts HVAC systems and homeowners in several ways. As of January 1, 2020, the production and importation of R-22 are banned in the United States. This means the supply of R-22 Freon™ will diminish over time, resulting in limited availability and higher prices for those who still rely on R-22-based systems. Consequently, the R-22 refrigerant cost will likely increase as the supply decreases.

How Does the Freon™ Phase-Out Affect Homeowners?

As the phase-out of R-22 refrigerant progresses, homeowners with existing R-22-based HVAC systems may have concerns and questions. Here are some key considerations:

If you currently have an HVAC system that relies on R-22 Freon™ refrigerant, you have a few options. While R-22 is being phased out due to its environmental impact, it is still available for servicing existing systems. However, the production and importation of R-22 Freon™ are being significantly reduced, which means the cost of this refrigerant may rise over time. The R-22 refrigerant cost can become a significant factor in your decision-making process.

If you're considering replacing or retrofitting your HVAC system, it's crucial to weigh the long-term costs and benefits. Newer systems that use more environmentally friendly refrigerants, such as Puron Advance, offer improved energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact. Although the upfront cost of upgrading your system may be higher, you can potentially save money in the long run through lower heating and cooling bills and reduced maintenance costs.