How does the ban on R22 refrigerant and equipment affect my Air Conditioning System Cost?

In 2022, there has been some changes to the industry that is worth mentioning. 

From the changes to the R22 equipment and supplies, to the timelines to which customer’s should consider replacing their equipment. In today’s market, financial planning and preparation comes with information and advice from professionals in the business.

Let’s start with the positive:

EPA has taken steps to reduce the pollution that Air Conditioning systems put out into the

atmosphere. With the cease in production of R22 refrigerant and equipment, which release

dangerous ozone depleting chemicals into the air, AC units today are manufactured to use the

alternative 410a refrigerant. The 410a can absorb and release heat better than R22 and doesn’t

contain chlorine atoms, making it safer for the environment than it’s counterpart.

This didn’t happen overnight:

This change has been a long time coming with the phase out of R22 dating back to 2010. If your

system was installed prior to 2010, then it most likely using R22. Now in 2022, 12 years later

the production and import of R22 refrigerant has become illegal in the United States. Making

most Air conditioning units purchased prior to Jan 1, 2010, arriving closer to the end of a unit’s

estimated lifespan.

What does the banning of R22 mean to homeowners?

Due to the phaseout, only licensed repair vendors are allowed to purchase and use R22 in the

repair of unit’s still in use. R22 refrigerant is in declining supply in the United States, which is

driving repair costs on R22 units and rising prices on refrigerant per pound. These equipment and

refrigerant shortages mean that homeowners will have to consider a plan for replacement within

the next 5 years depending on the age and care of their current system.

What type of options should I consider?

Retrofitting the system to use 410a refrigerant: With some modifications, and a “drop in”

replacement, your system may be able to be retrofitted to use another refrigerant. Because of the

pressure needed to operate the R22 and 410a differ, systems cannot simply alternate between

refrigerants. Consult with your AC Professional to find out more information.

Purchasing a new unit: With technology rapidly changing the way we interact with the world;

new systems can be a cost and energy effective way to cool your home. Although they are a

costly purchase and installation, there are long term money saving benefits that will save you in

the long run. With repair costs continuing to climb for a R22 system it is unclear what the future

holds for refrigerant cost and equipment availability.

Financing a new system: Airzone Heating and Air Conditioning partners with FTLfinance and

Accreditservices, who provide finance options for customers who need make a purchase using a

financial lender. Depending on your credit history, some options will provide a payment plan

with low interests’ rates which will make purchasing a large appliance financially plausible.

Located in Buda Texas and servicing all Austin and Surrounding Areas, we look forward to the

opportunity to provide great quality Air Conditioner and Heating services. Contact us online at

www.airzoneservices.com or call us at (512)-917-0384 for further assistance. With our staff of

highly trained certified technicians, we have gone from providing service to our community in

Buda, to include areas such as Wimberly, San Marcos, Kyle, Austin, Georgetown, Liberty Hills,

Round Rock, Hutto, Bastrop, Dripping Springs, and Leander.

As a local family-owned business, we understand the importance of maintaining a positive

record with our work and strive to ensure that all our technicians are well trained to diagnose and

repair any issues your Air Conditioning and Heating system may encounter. We ensure proper

employment screening for our staff including drug testing and background checks to ensure that

the safety of you and your family is our company’s top priority. We provide easy communication

access for our customers without the run around of departments and automated recordings.

For any further assistance, we may provide, let our experienced technicians assist your needs.

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