What You Should Do in Hays County, TX
Everyone with an AC unit older than 2010, in Hays County, TX in addition the rest of the US, has reason to pay attention to the big message from the Environmental Protection Agency about the R22 refrigerant phase out.
Garner Heat and Air would of course be more than happy to assist you with any necessary system conversions, but first, let’s understand everything going on, starting from the basics.
While R-22 is still available, because it is not being produced or imported anymore the price has gone up and could be hard to find. It is only available through after-market sales, such as after the recovery from salvaged older systems. Because of the limited availability and higher price, a system replacement that uses a different refrigerant might actually be more cost-effective.
Yes, R-22 can still be used after 2020 if it is already in an installed system. R-22 will no longer be produced or imported however, so this once inexpensive type of freon is now hard to find and pricey.
The most common replacement refrigerant for R-22 is usually R-407c. It is important to understand, however, that if the system already has R-22 circulating in it, a replacement freon cannot just be added to replenish the supply if it is low. Most older systems that still use R-22 also use a mineral oil that will not work well with replacement refrigerants. The exception to this rule would be if the system were much newer and had little to no R-22 left.
Ultimately, by the time the old R-22 is removed from your system and a replacement refrigerant is installed, you are facing not only that expensive repair service, but also the likelihood that the unit will have more frequent breakdowns in the future due to the new type of freon in the system. Generally, to avoid the hassle and expense, we advise our R-22 clients to invest in a new system that uses a different refrigerant.
For more information on R-22 replacement options, Garner Heating & Air Conditioning can help. Contact us online now and one of our knowledgeable team members will be in touch.
What is the R22 Refrigerant Phase Out?
The EPA states that R22 refrigerant is set to become illegal to produce and/or import starting January 1,2020. This is because R22 is considered an ozone-depleting substance. The use of R22 on your current air conditioning or heat pump system is still allowed.
How Will the Phase Out Affect Me?
There are a few options to prepare. Use of your current air conditioning or heat pump system using R22 refrigerant is not illegal, but if your system does need a repair involving refrigerant you have a two options:
Use an alternative refrigerant in your current AC (could be pricey) Have a new AC installed and use a new refrigerant
The Main Question We Hear: If you can just maintain your current AC and utilize a new refrigerant in it, why would you need to buy a new one?
Our Answer: Using different refrigerants in your current AC could void the limited warranty and increase the chance of a breakdown. If you feel that this is a good solution, you can legally do this, but we don’t recommend it.
What if I Wait to Replace My AC?
Let’s say you aren’t using an alternative refrigerant. You decide to go ahead and keep using R22 refrigerant until the complete ban.
R22 is still available, but it isn’t cheap. A refrigerant leak is more costly than ever this way. With that in mind, we are urging homeowners to take action quickly.
Does Replacing My AC Have Other Benefits?
It might be frustrating to have to get a new unit, especially if it’s on the newer side. Yes, it will be an investment. However, you can experience additional benefits, including:
Faster Cooling Longer Limited Warranties As Much as 40% Utility Savings Planet Preservation Decreased Noise
Garner Heat and Air Will Help You With All Considerations
We are always here to answer your questions and address your concerns. If you’re interested in the process of an AC replacement, we can point you to the options that suit your needs the most. And if you’re taken a bit by surprise with the R22 refrigerant phaseout, we also provide financing options.
Reach us 7 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. at 512-392-2000
