The R-22 Refrigerant Phase-Out – What You Need to Know

On January 1, 2020, R-22, or “Freon” will become illegal to manufacture, import, or use in the United States. This popular refrigerant was the AC industry standard up until the US Environmental Protection Agency deemed it unsafe and harmful to the environment a few years ago.

As the leading provider of air conditioning installation in Toms River, Brick, NJ, and beyond, we can help homeowners to replace R-22, or upgrade their AC systems before next January.

What Does the R-22 Phase-Out Mean for Homeowners?

After R-22 becomes illegal next year, the refrigerant will increase in price, and become harder to obtain across the USA. As a result of this, it will be both illegal and expensive to repair older R-22 AC units. This is because many emergency repairs require refilling or recharging of refrigerant materials.

For AC systems that leak refrigerant periodically, topping them up with R-22 will become too expensive; therefore homeowners should seriously consider replacing these AC systems.

What are the Options for R-22 AC System Owners?

Typically, homes and businesses that use R-22 AC systems have two options.

  • Convert your current R-22 system using a replacement refrigerant.
  • Be proactive and replace your AC system with an upgrade.

These Options Won’t Work for Everyone.

Conversions are not suitable for every type of AC system that currently relies on R-22. A professional inspection should be undertaken to reveal the safest and most efficient option for your AC or HVAC system.

If you are experiencing problems with your current AC system, it’s not advisable to wait until the system fails to take action. Up until January, you can still obtain R-22 to fix your AC issues.

However, as the demand for R-22 increases, so will the cost of procuring this refrigerant. It’s up to you whether or not you take the option of filling your system with Freon before January 1, 2020. But please bear in mind that after this date, R-22 will no longer be a legal, or viable option.
For more information, or to discuss AC replacement services in Toms River, NJ, and nearby regions, call us now.

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