If you have an older air conditioning system in your home, there are regulatory changes you should know about. R-22 refrigerant (aka Freon) will become illegal to manufacture or import into the US on 12/31/2019.
R-22 refrigerant is a chemical that keeps the air coming from your air conditioning system cool. Most air conditioning systems older than 10 years utilize air conditioning refrigerant called R-22, commonly known as Freon.
The U.S. EPA considers R-22 Freon an ozone-depleting agent and as part of the international agreement known as “The Montreal Protocol”, groups around the world have phased out this harmful chemical. Freon prices have hiked significantly because of the ban and shortages will likely increase costs even more.
Owners of older air conditioning systems have a decision to make. Here are the options:
Option 1: Stay the course until you’re forced to make a change.
If your system was installed after 2010, free of refrigerant leaks, properly maintained and operating well, it’s possible that it could last for years without needing more refrigerant.
If you choose this option:
Regular inspections, preventative maintenance and coil cleaning are imperative. Contact Key Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule your annual tune-up.
Option 2: Is your system prone to refrigerant leaks?
If your system is prone to leaks and needs to be topped off regularly we can perform a leak and search test to identify the location of your leak. Depending on the location, a repair can be made. If a repair is made you may still face problems down the road as this is not a long-term solution.
If you choose this option:
Contact Key Heating & Air Conditioning to learn more about what is involved with a leak and search test to see if this is the best temporary solution for your home.
Option 3: Replace your system with a modern system that uses new refrigerant.
Replacing your R-22 based equipment now will eliminate the risk of expensive emergency repairs and provide you with a new, more energy efficient system. Tax incentives and energy rebates may make it more affordable than ever, plus it’s the environmentally responsible thing to do.
If you choose this option:
Contact Key Heating & Air Conditioning to review your options and learn about the latest energy efficient technology.
For more information about the R-22 ban, click here.