BANNED FROM PRODUCTION: R22 REFRIGERANT
If you are giving any consideration to replacing your air conditioning and/or heating system, there are a couple things you should be aware of that may make a difference in your timing. If your air conditioner is more than 10 years old, there’s a good chance it uses R22 refrigerant. Because R22 damages the ozone, it will be banned from production on January 1, 2020. The only supply will be existing stock and recycled.
The price of R22 is already sky high and is expected to go higher. If you have a history of refrigerant leaks, it’s going to be very expensive to repair. This should make your decision to repair or replace your old and inefficient system easier as a new system will cut your operating costs substantially.
What Is Refrigerant Anyway?
The refrigerant in your AC or heat pump is the fluid that flows inside the coils in your equipment. With the help of your system’s compressor, condenser and evaporator, various pressures are imposed on the refrigerant causing it to transform physically between liquid and gas states.
This physical change makes the substance either hot or cold. As its pressure changes; it readily absorbs or gives off heat to the air passing over the coils, changing the temperature of that air. Eventually, this comfortable air makes its way to the rooms in your home.
Many manufacturers and utility providers have consumer rebates that can help with the cost of new equipment. Find out what type of refrigerant your system uses or contact a licensed HVAC contractor. Our comfort specialist would be happy to explain it further in a no-cost appointment.
This story and photos provided by Green Valley Cooling & Heating and The Green Valley News & Sun Advertising Department.
