Your AC system uses a chemical refrigerant to shift heat within your house outside. This makes your home cool and comfortable. The model of refrigerant used in your North America house’s air conditioner has been modified a couple of times over the years, following innovative advancements and environmental considerations.
All new home AC units in North America uses R410a, also known as Puron. But this refrigerant will consequently be phased out. This is due to a continued focus on reducing compounds known to have an effect on the environment.
To find out the “why” that causes AC restrictions, it’s useful to put it into perspective. Two-thirds of the 128.5 million houses in the USA have air conditioning, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
But it’s not so much the air conditioning system itself, or even its cooling performance.
The main issue is the refrigerant these units has to create the refreshing air we enjoy.
Installed after 2010
If your system was put in after January 1, 2010, it probably runs on R410a. And there’s lots of time for you to get ready for the phaseout. So, it’s not something you should be worried about at this time.
Plans and schedules have been determined for commercial AC systems. But the beginning of the phaseout for residential air conditioning systems hasn’t yet been set. However, the phaseout could begin around 2024 and take 10 years to complete.
At that date, you might need to install a new your system regardless, because the average life span for an air conditioning system is typically 15 years.
Installed Before 2010
This refrigerant isn’t being produced currently, but there are still a lot of North America residential AC systems that have R22. If you have to have work, it can be very costly as only reclaimed and recycled refrigerant is accessible.
A lot of the time, we suggest buying a new your equipment because of the increasing expenses of sustaining an AC unit with R22. Plus, you’ll be getting an enhanced energy-efficient solution.
Reach our Experts at 866-397-3787 right away and we’ll help you get started choosing a new unit.
How Do I Determine What Type Refrigerant My AC Uses?
If you’re unsure what type of refrigerant your AC runs on, you can look at its nameplate. This piece is typically found on the outside condenser. Or you can find it in your owner’s manual.
If you still can’t come across it, North America residents should reach us at 866-397-3787 and our Experts can assist you.
Why are Refrigerants Hurtful to the Environment?
Older formulas of refrigerants can hurt the environment and cause climate change. Here’s a brief look at the history of residential air conditioner refrigerants:
- Residential air conditioners have run on R22, or Freon, for many years. Scientists discovered it was damaging to the environment and ozone, so manufacturing permanently halted on January 1, 2020.
- R410a is the replacement for R22. It’s what you’ll discover in all new cooling units now.
What Should I Do in the Interim?
If your air conditioning is near (or older than) 15 years, now’s a great time to begin preparing for installation.
We understand that installing a new system can be a major expense. That’s why we have our exclusive Advantage Program™ as well as financing, With our Advantage Program, you can have an updated, high-efficiency system for only one small monthly payment. And enjoy maintenance, repairs and parts at no extra cost.*
Get in touch with us at 866-397-3787 to schedule an appointment today. We’ll review your budget and needs to help you locate the ideal comfort system for your house.