If Your AC System Uses R-22, Listen Up!
Learn What the Ban on R-22 Means for You!
Operating a dependable air conditioner is the key to not losing your cool this spring and summer. Keep an eye out for these telltale signs that you may need to schedule an AC replacement in Monmouth County and beyond:
- Your system is more than 10 years old.
- It requires frequent repairs.
- Your energy bills are on the rise.
- You notice hot and cold spots in your home.
- There are humidity problems or excessive dust.
If Your System Runs on R-22
At the beginning of this year, the Environmental Protection Agency implemented a ban on the production or importation of R-22—the most commonly used refrigerant in AC systems, particularly older units.
What Is R-22?
R-22 is the standard refrigerant that’s been used in AC units from 1928 until 2010, which is when the production of systems charged with R-22 came to a halt.
Why Is R-22 Being Phased Out?
Scientists have found that chlorine, a critical component of R-22, has been deteriorating the ozone layer for close to a century, resulting in harm to the environment—which is why the EPA has determined that R-22 is no longer safe.
What Does This Mean?
The halt of R-22 means it’s now illegal to produce R-22 in this country or to import it from other countries. However, it’s still legal to use R-22. Here’s the problem: servicing R-22-based systems will rely solely on recycling, reusing, or repurposing this refrigerant. Since production has ceased, costs to charge existing units leaking R-22 refrigerant have gone up and are expected to keep climbing. As a result, it will most likely be more expensive to repair or recharge your system.
How Does This Affect You?
More than likely, your air conditioner will have sufficient R-22 unless a leak occurs. Old equipment that uses R-22 might still be worth repairing if it’s not leaking refrigerant. Otherwise, because costs are going up due to limited supply, it may be a good time to consider upgrading to a newer and more efficient system.
Choosing to upgrade to a system that relies on safer alternatives to R-22 will protect you from costly service and repairs. Plus, you’ll enjoy a system that:
- Uses 20% less refrigerant, which leads to lower energy costs
- Reduces one’s carbon footprint
- Adds to a home’s resale value
- Pays off during tax season
The federal government also offers energy efficiency tax credits to homeowners who choose to make energy-related improvements to their homes, including upgrading to a more energy-efficient air conditioner.