The R‑22 Phase‑Out and What it Means For Your HVAC System

As a homeowner, staying informed about changes in regulations that affect your home systems is crucial. One of the significant changes impacting many homeowners right now is the phase-out of R-22 refrigerant, a well-known player in the air conditioning world. If your AC system is over 14 years old, it likely uses R-22, and the implications of its phase-out are worth understanding.

At Jack Harrison Heating & Air, we recognize the challenges these changes present. That’s why we're here to offer guidance and reliable solutions.

The HVAC industry has undergone significant transformations in its use of refrigerants. Here's a brief timeline:

• R-22: Introduced in the 1930s, R-22 became the go-to refrigerant for home air conditioning systems. However, its detrimental impact on the ozone layer with a high global warming potential (GWP), led to a phase-out starting in 2003, culminating in a complete manufacturing ban in 2010.
  
  
• R-410A: Post R-22, R-410A emerged as the standard alternative, classified as an A1 refrigerant. It’s more environmentally friendly but is now being phased out due to its high global warming potential (GWP). Today, most home AC units, including many installed since the late 90's, use R410A refrigerant. Unfortunately, like R-22, R-410A has a high GWP. The EPA has now intervened and enacted a series of regulations through the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act. Beginning January 1, 2025, residential and light commercial air conditioning products utilizing R-410A will no longer be allowed for import into the United States. They plan to phase out all use of R-410A refrigerant by 2036.
  
  
• R-32 and R-454B: With R-410A going the way of R-22, the new standard refrigerant contenders are A2L-class refrigerants R-32 and R-454B and are set to become the standards starting in 2025. These options offer better energy efficiency and lower GWP but come with higher costs and less large-scale testing. Estimates suggest that A2L refrigerants will achieve a 99% reduction in GWP, coupled with lower lifecycle emissions.
  
  It is important to note, however, that A2L-class refrigerants are mildly flammable. Because of this, existing HVAC systems cannot be retrofitted to use A2L refrigerants, and doing so would violate EPA regulations. Consequently, the new A2L refrigerant standards will only apply to newly manufactured systems. Older systems will be “grandfathered” in, allowing them to continue using HFC refrigerants until they require full replacement.

Despite being phased out, R-22 remains crucial for many homeowners. Although importing or producing R-22 in the U.S. is illegal, using it is not. This means you can continue to operate an older AC unit as long as it remains functional and leak-free. Additionally, you can still purchase R-22 within the U.S. that was produced before the ban or since recovered. But be prepared for a hefty refrigerant bill! While repairs involving R-22 can be costlier due to limited supply, they provide a valuable alternative for those not ready to replace their systems entirely.

Knowing whether your system uses R-22 is essential in planning for the future. Here’s how you can find out:

• Check the Age of Your System: Systems over 14 years old may use R-22. Units installed before 2010 are especially likely to rely on this refrigerant.
• Inspect the Unit’s Label: Look for a label on your outdoor unit, typically on the data tag on the panel, to find refrigerant information. If the label is unreadable, it may be time to call in a professional.
• Consult a Professional: Our team at Jack Harrison Heating & Air can quickly identify your system’s refrigerant type and suggest the best course of action.

While our limited stock of R-22 offers temporary relief, it's vital to start planning for the future. With the A2L-class refrigerants soon to become the industry standard, investing in a new HVAC system will eventually be necessary. And though these refrigerants bring advantages, such as better energy efficiency, they also represent a shift that requires thoughtful preparation.

With the new changes coming with R-32 and R454B, some people eligible to change out a partial system are now forced by government regulations to replace the entire system. Much of this stems from safety concerns due to the mildly flammable nature of the new refrigerant and its need for a built-in mitigation system, including the air handler or furnace and the AC and coil.

It is important to note that partial system replacements that include one component will still be allowed after January 1st, 2025, and R-410A refrigerant will still be available up until at least 2036; however, it may become cost-prohibitive the same way that R-22 refrigerant has become cost-prohibitive. In a bind, Jack Harrison can offer temporary solutions and AC repairs in most cases until you are ready to make any upgrades to a new AC and Coil. With R-410A systems, it is imperative to keep your current system properly maintained to avoid costly repairs that rely on old refrigerants.