R22 Phase Out
At Precision Air & Â Heating, we believe in providing our customers the most relevant information possible so we can assist in helping them make educated decisions about their heating and cooling systems.
So let’s start with the basics. What is R-22?
Hydrochlorofluorocarbon, a colorless gas better known as HCFC-22 or R-22, is the main ingredient used in air conditioning units for over the past 4 decades. The EPA has since begun a phase-out of this ingredient because of its ozone depleting potential (Montreal Protocol). The original phase-out mandated a 90% reduction in R22 consumption by the year 2015 and a 99.5%, near elimination, of production by 2020. However, the EPA recognized that the industry was not on track to meet these mandates. So, in January of 2012, the deadlines were moved ahead by decreasing the overall allowable production levels of R22 by an additional 45%. Now, the cost of refrigerant is nearly double of what it once was.
As a home owner you have two options:
- Option 1, attempt to maintain the existing system as long as possible without dangerous leaks. This Includes:
a)Â Â Â Â Â Preventative Maintenance
b)Â Â Â Â Â $159.95 AC Tune-Up
c)Â Â Â Â Â Electrical Repairs
d)Â Â Â Â Refrigerant Repairs
- Option 2, upgrading to a higher efficiency (does not use R-22), which would be the recommended solution; however, upgrading is not the only other fix.
- Option 3, there are some newer EPA approved refrigerants being manufactures that do not contain R-22 and can be used in older units. The cost however is high and the performance could be altered.
If upgrading to new unit is your choice, the good news is that many of the newer units are inexpensive and use significantly less energy than the older systems.
So when you’re ready to consider repair or replacement of your old R22 AC unit, call Precision Air &  Heating. All our technicians are NATE certified, the highest Certification available in the industry; only a NATE certified technician will be able to provide the most accurate diagnosis for your situation.
And remember when it comes to getting it done right, make the Precision Decision!
Schedule an appointment today
