Why You Should Replace Your AC Before the R-22 Refrigerant Ban
If your home still uses an older central air conditioner that runs on R-22 refrigerant, now is the time to think about replacing it. R-22, also called HCFC-22, harms the environment, and new Clean Air Act rules require it to be phased out. The newer and safer refrigerant is R410A, and all new systems must use it.
Why You Can’t Just Switch Refrigerants
At first, it might seem easy—you may think you can just remove the old refrigerant and add the new one. But that won't work.
- R-22 systems are not designed to handle R410A.
- You also cannot retrofit or convert an R-22 system to work with R410A.
- The two refrigerants work at different pressures, and the equipment is built differently.
This means older AC units that use R-22 will have to be replaced. There’s no workaround.
R-22 Is Becoming Very Expensive
Because of the phase-out, R-22 refrigerant is getting harder to find. By 2020, production officially stopped, and only recycled or leftover supplies remain.
As a result:
- Prices are skyrocketing
- Repairs that require R-22 are becoming extremely expensive
- Service fees and maintenance costs continue to rise
Soon, getting R-22 may become impossible—and repairing your AC could cost more than replacing it.
This is why it’s smarter to decide now whether you want to keep paying more for an outdated system or upgrade to a modern AC.
Why Upgrading to a New AC System Makes Sense
A new air conditioning system that uses R410A comes with a lot of benefits:
✔ Higher Efficiency
Modern AC systems use less energy to cool your home. That means lower monthly energy bills. Over time, many homeowners save enough to cover much of the cost of the new system.
✔ Raises Your Home Value
A new AC system is a major selling point. Buyers appreciate lower energy bills and won’t worry about paying for a replacement soon after moving in.
Keeping an old R-22 system, on the other hand, lowers your home’s resale value, because buyers know they’ll need to replace it themselves.
✔ Fewer Repairs
Newer systems are more reliable and easier to maintain. You won't be stuck paying for expensive R-22 refills or frequent breakdowns.
We're standing by to provide you with the information that you need to make an informed decision. Contact us to get more details about the new coolant regulations and how they apply to you. Let's take a look at your current air conditioning unit and what it's going to mean for you to become compliant with an energy-efficient R410A cooling unit. Our professional expertise makes us highly qualified to replace central air conditioner systems. Put our experience and know-how to work for you. Call today (818) 341-3406 or request air conditioner replacement consultation online. To learn more about services our company offers, please visit our homepage.
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