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During Greenwood, IN, summers, your air conditioner becomes your best friend since it allows you to continue daily activities without slowing down with lethargy. Unfortunately, several issues can arise, threatening your unit’s cooling capabilities, including leaking refrigerant that leaves your system needing a recharge. But if your AC unit is older, you may wonder, “Is Freon still available for air conditioners?”
Below, we answer all your Freon-related questions, including why it may be difficult to get a Freon recharge and what alternative options are available. Then, trust our air conditioner repair experts in Greenwood, IN, to put your desired solution into play.
What Is Freon?
Freon or HCFC-22 Freon is a cooling refrigerant that absorbs existing heat in the surrounding air and extracts it outside the cooling area, leaving only cool air available in your air conditioner, refrigerator, and freezer. This chemical, invented in 1928, replaced the original R12 refrigerant since it has a higher pressure level and over 50% higher cooling capacity.
Why Is Freon No Longer Available?
Unfortunately, like its predecessor, R22 Freon releases Hydrochlorofluorocarbons that cause ozone layer depletion. This realization encouraged the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to begin phasing out R22 in 1992. They then started phasing in new HVAC equipment in 2010 that doesn’t rely on this substance to create cool air.
In January 2020, the ban continued its efforts by eliminating the importation of Freon into the United States, meaning the only kind residents and business owners could get their hands on were recycled or stockpiled. According to the EPA, their concluding step in the phase-out will take place in January 2030, when they plan to ban the distribution of all HCFCs throughout the U.S., including recycled chemicals.
Does Your Unit Still Require Freon?
If you’re wondering, “Is Freon still available for air conditioners?” you probably have an HVAC system that still runs on the stuff. That includes any cooling unit, from AC systems to heat pumps, you had installed in 2010 or prior. However, to be certain whether your unit relies on this refrigerant type:
- Check the data plate on the outer condensing unit portion of your system for “R-22.”
- Read the owner’s manual.
- Contact the manufacturer if you have the manufacturer’s name and unit model number.
- Call the HVAC company that sold you or installed your cooling system.
What Does Lack of Freon Availability Mean for You?
Luckily, if your unit does run on Freon, you still have a few years before the final stage of the R22 ban takes place. That means if your system leaks refrigerant, most technicians can recharge your unit with the existing stockpiled or recycled Freon to get your unit cooling again. This simpler solution also proves more economical than a unit replacement, especially for those who cannot afford the latter.
The EPA decided to spread its efforts over multiple decades so U.S. residents could make the switch when it was most convenient for them. But they suggest you swap yours out for a more environmentally friendly one as soon as possible to not only reduce emissions, but so you won’t be in a fix when Freon becomes obsolete in 2030.
Also, if your unit still uses Freon, meaning it’s ten years or older, it’s nearing the end of its lifespan. So, rather than continuing to invest in the diminishing product by paying for constant, costly repairs, consider a new installation that’ll prove more cost-effective in the long run. Moreover, since R-22 is in short supply, a refill can cost up to twice as much as another refrigerant refill, ranging up to $600.
What Do HVACs Now Use Instead?
But if the answer will soon be no to “Is Freon still available for air conditioners?” what do HVACs use instead? Newer models sold after 2010 have swapped out the toxic material for Puron or R410A, which works like R-22 by absorbing and expelling heat, but without the harmful HCFCs that would otherwise release into the atmosphere.
Although invented in 1991, it wasn’t until Carrier first introduced this non-ozone-depleting coolant into the market in 1996 that it began to gain momentum. In the years following, especially with the R22 phase-out, Puron became the preferred refrigerant nationwide since it operated at the highest pressure compared to other leading types.
With between 480 and 500 psi, R410A attracts and releases heat more effortlessly, contributing to more cooling capabilities and lower energy costs. Leaks also contribute to a lower ozone depletion rate, making it a top choice, but it’s far from the only option on the market. Some systems instead include:
- Forane or R-427A
- Bluon TdX 20 or R-458A
- SUVA HP-62 or R-404A
- Klea 60 or R-407A
- And much more!
Retrofitting vs. Replacing Your Unit
Many qualified technicians provide the option to retrofit your current system so it uses a different refrigerant type than it originally came with. Retrofitting helps many U.S. residents with a relatively new system or tight budget so they don’t have to purchase a new unit altogether. Unfortunately, while most refrigerant systems are available for retrofitting, including HFC-134a, R-404A, and R-407F, R-22 is not.
According to the EPA, R-22 systems are one of the few manufacturers designed to run solely on one refrigerant type, meaning technicians won’t even consider retrofitting if you have this type of system. Instead, you would need a replacement unit.
Complete Comfort Heating, A/C & Plumbing Repair Done the Right Way!
Since 2003, our specialized team of professionals has provided 24/7 assistance for all heating and cooling needs in Greenwood, Carmel, Fishers, and surrounding Indiana areas. We’ve gained dozens of five-star reviews and most of our regulars via word of mouth because we put customer satisfaction at the forefront of what we do. We also encourage environmental friendliness and strive for cost-effectiveness.
So if you’re wondering, “Is Freon still available for air conditioners?” or are considering adding refrigerant to your AC unit, contact Complete Comfort Heating, A/C & Plumbing Repair. Call (317) 648-5133 for services in Greenwood, IN, and nearby areas today!