According to studies, R22 refrigerant, also known as Freon, contributes to the depletion of ozone in our atmosphere. Although other refrigerants, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), are also considered harmful to our planet, R22 is frequently the most harmful.
The Environmental Protection Agency and other international organizations have begun phasing out R22. Aside from the environmental damage caused by Freon, the ongoing costs of maintaining your old R22 climate control system will continue to rise. By contacting us for an air conditioner upgrade consultation, you can avoid costly repairs and replacements while also helping to preserve the environment. Freon is a refrigerant that is commonly found in a variety of homes, as well as commercial and industrial appliances. It is technically a brand name owned by DuPont, but it is frequently used as an all-encompassing term for HCFC refrigerants. The refrigerant is called HCFC because it is made up of hydrogen, carbon, fluorine, and chlorine. R22, also known as HCFC-22, is currently the most common HCFC. It is, however, being phased out and will eventually be prohibited entirely.
Staying compliant
Although older air conditioning systems that use R22 gas can still be used, air conditioning technicians like us are not permitted to complete work that involves breaking into circuits that contain this hazardous refrigerant under the legislation. With a January 2020 deadline for the complete phase-out of R22, increasing compliance now will ensure you don’t face any penalties later.
If your system functions well, you can keep servicing and maintaining it to lessen its environmental impact. The restricted availability of R22 refrigerant in Canada, however, ensures that existing stock will continue to be offered for sale, albeit at ever-rising rates. There won’t be any new R22 imported into Canada. Limited quantities of recycled R22 from retired systems will also be sold at a premium price.
If your equipment is beyond its useful life, in bad shape, in a dangerous setting, or is simple to access, replacing it can be a realistic alternative (to reduce labour cost associated with replacement). The expense of continued maintenance and repair in the case of a breakdown will eventually increase, even though you can still use your current equipment. For better cost savings, think about replacing the equipment right away. Government incentive schemes and financing choices help lower the cost of the replacement.
Which Kind of Refrigerant A/C System Should You Buy?
The replacement for R22 is R410A. This new type of refrigerant is what modern HVAC systems are designed to use. If you purchased a system after 2010, chances are it uses R410A.
R410A differs from R22 in a number of ways. R22, a hydrochlorofluorocarbon, is one of the last ozone-depleting substances still commonly used. R410A is not a hydrochlorofluorocarbon. R410A is much better at absorbing and releasing heat. As a result, it’s much more efficient.
Take the time to develop your plan for replacing R22-based equipment today
Vese Heating & Cooling is a partner you can trust to replace your equipment.
As R22 supply becomes limited, commercial and industrial building operators across Canada are looking for cost-effective solutions that minimize impact to their daily operations.
We are actively working with clients to address R22 based equipment and can work with owners and operators to determine energy efficient solutions that meet operational needs.
