Beginning in January 2020, R-22 freon, one of the most commonly used air conditioning refrigerants, became illegal to produce, sell, or purchase as a part of new environmental regulations intended to phase out its use. What does this mean for you? If you have a newer system, probably nothing, but if your HVAC system is older, you may need to convert or replace your unit.

What Is R-22?

In the past, R-22 was the primary refrigerant used in residential HVAC systems. However, in 1992, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) determined that HCFCs (hydrochlorofluorocarbons, one of which is R-22) contribute to ozone depletion and should no longer be used. As a result, R-22 manufacturers have stopped production in favor of manufacturing newer, safer alternatives.

What Does This Mean for Homeowners in St. Paul, MN?

Many homeowners have elected to switch to more environmentally friendly refrigerant options, and older AC systems that were replaced with newer models no longer use R-22. If your HVAC system still uses R-22 and doesn’t need to be replaced yet, recycled stocks of R-22 are still available to maintain your unit, but as the supply dwindles, costs will increase. There are also conversions that allow for replacement refrigerants available to use instead of R-22 in older HVAC units, but they don’t work in every system, so you should consult a professional to find out about your options.

R-22 Conversion vs. Freon AC Replacement for your Minneapolis Home

If you’re deciding whether to convert your existing system or replace it with a new unit, here are some things to consider:

The average life span of an AC system is 15 years, so if you have a pre-2010 model, it’s due for an upgrade.
Has your system started to frequently break down, indicating that it is nearing the end of its useful life?
Is the risk of increasing R-22 or replacement refrigerant costs along with repairs feasible for your budget?
Newer systems are more energy-efficient and can help save money on your utility bills, which can help offset the initial installation cost.
If your air conditioner is leaking refrigerant, you more than likely need a replacement no matter what type of refrigerant it is. Major refrigerant leaks are often a warning sign that you need a new AC.

Adam’s Healthy Home R-22 Conversions in St. Paul, MN

Do you need to replace your AC system just because it uses R-22 freon? Not really: If your air conditioner is in reliable working condition, it won’t need to be replaced right away, and conversion might be a good choice for you. The best way to decide if you need to repair, retrofit, or replace your R22 air conditioner is to learn about your current system and consult a professional you can trust for advice.

Schedule your R-22 Conversion Service with Adam’s Healthy Home

Adam’s Healthy Home has been providing top-quality HVAC service to homeowners in St. Paul, Minneapolis, Medina, Eden Prairie, and the surrounding areas since 1971. Our goal is to provide reliable and trustworthy service, while only making suggestions that are in the customer’s best interest, and our numerous positive customer reviews are a testament to that service-oriented approach. Our team of trained and certified technicians has the experience and know-how to diagnose and repair any issue on any type or brand of HVAC unit to keep you cool and comfortable all year round. We offer 24/7 emergency services, as well as convenient and cost-effective preventive maintenance plans to fit every budget.

If you’d like to learn more about R-22 conversions or get a quote on a new HVAC system, give us a call at (612) 688-3500 any time.