Will the Phase Out of R22 Refrigerant Affect You?
For homeowners in Tallahassee, FL who have a heating or cooling system that still uses R22 refrigerant, this can be a problem for you on your next service visit.
Since January 1, 2020, the production and import of this type of substance, an ozone-depleting chemical, is now illegal in the United States. Of course, this does not mean that continued use of the air conditioner that consumes R22 refrigerant is no longer allowed.
However, this does mean that if the AC system needs a repair involving the substance, you may need to decide between a costly system replacement and a refrigerant bill.
What Is Refrigerant?
The refrigerant that your cooling system uses is a fluid that flows within the coils of its equipment. Using the system’s evaporator, condenser, and compressor, varying pressures are applied to the refrigerant. This causes it to change physically between liquid and gaseous states.
These changes make the substance either hot or cold. When its pressure transforms, it readily absorbs heat in the air as it passes over the coils, affecting the temperature in a room.
Eventually, this cool air makes its way into the rooms of your home.
How Will I Know What Refrigerant My Cooling System Is Using?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has implemented a ban on the import and production of R22 since January 1, 2010. However, it exempted the continuous servicing needs of existing equipment.
The EPA also prohibited the production and installation of new R22 AC systems. This new law resulted in manufacturers of air-conditioning systems redesigning their models to accommodate a chlorine-free agent, R410A.
For homeowners who had their AC system built and installed before January 1, 2010, there’s a good probability that it still uses R22 refrigerant. You may find that your equipment has a label identifying the type of refrigerant it uses. However, it is best to ask for confirmation from a licensed AC dealer.
What Are My Options If My AC System Uses R22?
Although the ban does not require homeowners to begin replacing a functioning AC system that uses R22 refrigerant, they will need to evaluate their options, especially once their equipment fails.
Here are the following options you can take.
Option 1: Repair
Despite this first option sounding like a quick fix, the price of the R22 substance is subject to huge changes, particularly due to a shrinking supply. It could be possible that R22 is going to be quite expensive as the years go by.
Once the R22 supply starts to become more limited, you may end up having to pay an astronomical ac repair bill or replace you old system with an updated HVAC system.
Keep in mind that the air-conditioning system is not made to consume refrigerant. The liquid simply flows through the designated coils. If a technician suspects a leak in the system, they will identify and repair the leak rather than simply “top it off.”
Option 2: Replace HVAC
Are you desperately hoping that your current cooling system can get through one more season to avoid replacement? If you’re in this situation, perhaps going ahead with the decision and simply having the system replaced may be the best option.
You can save more in the long run by doing so than spending money on existing equipment that is no longer sustainable. Eventually, you will need to replace a broken air-conditioning system due to wear and tear.
With the second option, you can purchase a new cooling system without the urgency of living in an uncomfortable home. Besides being compliant with current laws, you also give yourself a system that is more energy efficient. Modern AC systems offer new features and advantages compared to models that were designed 10 to 20 years ago.
For Tallahassee homeowners who are concerned about the cost to replace HVAC system, please note many air-conditioning companies today provide affordable financing options. Cooper’s Plumbing & Air financing specials come with low down payments so you don’t have to worry about the initial cash outlay.
If you qualify for financing, this option could allow you to acquire a new cooling system without breaking the bank.
Whether you decide on the first or second option, it is best to call a professional HVAC contractor who can provide regular AC maintenance and extend the life of your home air conditioning system. Professional maintenance services help ensure that your system runs efficiently while remaining operational. Annual Maintenance tune-ups can also reveal any potential problems that could become worse if not fixed right away.
Alternative Options Concerning R22 Refrigerant
Some professional HVAC companies may offer to have your existing R22 system retrofitted to start using a new refrigerant. This is often referred to as a “drop-in” replacement. However, this process will require additional modifications to allow an R22 refrigerant cooling system to start using a new substance.
Major engineering analysis and adaptations need to be made on the system to modify a unit that uses R22 to R410A. The task is also going to require in-depth expertise, which can be difficult to find. Additionally, the EPA requires that these refrigerants are safely disposed of afterward.
Since a proper retrofit requires extensive expertise and experience, AC dealers that perform a faulty modification can result in the system’s warranty being voided. Furthermore, utilizing a different refrigerant than what was listed for the system may also void its safety certification.
Ultimately, an improper AC system modification and retrofit may cost you more compared to simply installing a compliant R410A refrigerant cooling system.
Conclusion
You probably are aware that replacing an air-conditioning system during summertime is going to take longer than having it done during the off season. The reason for this is simply due to the increased demand and availability of resources when it’s summer.
Now that R22 refrigerant is no longer allowed, there is going to be an increase in R22 system replacements in the coming years. Systems that eventually break down during summer or later may result in residents having to wait a long time to have a new air-conditioning system installed.
To take advantage of our spring specials, head over to Cooper’s Plumbing and Air and book your appointment now. Call Cooper’s Plumbing and Air for ALL your Tallahassee air conditioning service and needs today!