Below you will find all of the necessary information in order to understand the coming R-22 Phase-Out.

For any and all questions feel free to contact us at (509)833-5886 or schedule a Phone Consultation.

R-22 Phase-Out of Ozone-Depleting Substances (ODS)

You may be wondering why the decision has been reached to get rid of R-22 refrigerant. The United States, with the assistance of the EPA, monitor all Ozone-Depleting Substances (ODS). Any substances that have a high ozone depletion potential have been, or are in the process of being completely phased out.
The reason R-22 is included is because it contains hydrochloropluorocarbons (HCFCs) which is a transitional substitute for many Class I ODS’s. (https://www.epa.gov/ods-phaseout)

What is Refrigerant?

Put simply, refrigerant is the fluid that flows inside the coils in your unit. Through the combined effort of the compressor, condenser, and evaporator the refrigerant is changed from a liquid to a gas. This change makes the substance either hot or cold. Causing the substance to absorb or produce heat the the air passing over the coils, which is what changes the temperature of that air. This air is then distributed through your home.

“What does that mean for me?”

If you are one of the many that rely on a heating or cooling system that uses R-22 refrigerant then you may be in for a shock during your next maintenance check. As of January 1st, 2020 it will be illegal to produce or import in R-22 refrigerant. The R-22 Phase-Out is not going to stop you from being able to use the system you currently have. It will, however, mean that if you need a repair that involves a recharge on your refrigerant, you may be facing a hefty refrigerant bill. And that is only if your technician can get their hands on it!

What are your options?

There are two options you should weight if you have a system that uses R-22.

OPTION 1: REPAIR

While there is a limited supply you may want to have your system evaluated to ensure there is enough refrigerant in the unit. As time progresses R-22 refrigerant is going to shrink in supply. This is going to increase the price dramatically.

AC’s and heat pumps do not consume refrigerant, it simply flows through the coils. If there is a leak, you will need to get it repaired as soon as possible.

OPTION 2: REPLACE

At some point you will need to replace your broken AC or heat pump. Option 2 allows you to purchase a new unit on your own time. It gives you the time to shop around and evaluate energy efficiencies, product reviews, and the potential costs of the latest replacements available. Newer systems are going to offer you benefits that your old system may not have had.

If financing a new system is a concern, rest assured. Comfort Pro’s works with several financing companies to get you approved today!

Regardless of what option you choose, always use the expertise of a licensed HVAC technician to provide routine maintenance. Ensure that a small issue is taken care of before it becomes an expensive problem.