AC Installations, AC Repair, Advice For Homeowners
With decades of experience, STAR CITY HEATING, COOLING, ELECTRICAL & PLUMBING has been a leading provider of residential and commercial HVAC services throughout Lincoln, NE, and the surrounding communities. Let us guide you through the implications of the R-22 refrigerant phase-out so you can make the most informed decisions for your home’s comfort and efficiency.
The phase-out of R-22 refrigerant, also known as Freon, is a critical topic for Lincoln homeowners with older air conditioning systems. R-22 was once the standard in home AC units, widely valued for its cooling efficiency. However, due to environmental regulations and the need to protect the ozone layer, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has officially phased out all new production and imports of R-22 as of January 1, 2020. The change means that maintaining older systems may become increasingly challenging and costly as R-22 supplies dwindle.
Why Was R-22 Phased Out?
R-22 is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) refrigerant containing chlorine, a substance linked to ozone depletion. When R-22 leaks from AC systems, it releases chlorine into the atmosphere, leading to environmental harm. As part of the Montreal Protocol—a global agreement signed in the 1980s to reduce and eventually eliminate ozone-depleting substances—countries, including the U.S., agreed to gradually phase out R-22. Beginning in 2010, the EPA restricted R-22’s production for new systems and, by 2020, prohibited all new production or import. This means that only reclaimed or recycled R-22 can be used, and with limited supplies, its cost has skyrocketed.
What This Means for Your Lincoln Home
If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a strong likelihood it relies on R-22. While your system may still operate without issues, any repair that requires additional refrigerant will be much more expensive due to the limited availability of R-22. Homeowners now have two primary options: retrofit the existing system to use a more environmentally friendly refrigerant or replace the system entirely with one designed for modern refrigerants, such as R-410A.
Options for Homeowners: Retrofitting and Replacement
Retrofitting, or converting your existing system to use a newer, environmentally friendly refrigerant, can be a viable solution in some cases. This process typically involves replacing key components, such as the evaporator coil and condenser, to ensure the system can handle the different pressure and properties of modern refrigerants. However, not all R-22 systems are compatible with retrofitting, especially older units. Your technician at STAR CITY can assess your AC and determine if retrofitting is feasible for your system.
For systems that aren’t suited to retrofitting or are nearing the end of their lifespan, replacement is often the most cost-effective solution. Newer systems are designed to run on eco-friendly refrigerants, like R-410A, which are not only safer for the environment but also offer higher efficiency, leading to lower energy bills. The initial investment in a new system can often be recouped over time through energy savings.
Understanding the Retrofit Process
If your AC can be retrofitted, it requires a professional technician to assess, flush, and replace key parts, ensuring the system can manage the pressures of a new refrigerant. These parts may include coils, valves, and compressors, and the entire system must be thoroughly cleaned of R-22 residue. While retrofitting can extend a system’s life, it often won’t perform as efficiently as a system designed for new refrigerants from the start. A technician from STAR CITY can help you weigh the benefits and drawbacks of retrofitting versus replacement.
STAR CITY Is Here to Help
At STAR CITY HEATING, COOLING, ELECTRICAL & PLUMBING, our team of experts is ready to help Lincoln homeowners navigate the R-22 phase-out. Our AC Repair specialists can assess your system, discuss all options, and provide a recommendation tailored to your needs and budget. Don’t wait for an emergency breakdown—reach out to STAR CITY today to discuss your options and keep your home comfortably cool this summer. With a range of energy-efficient options and professional guidance, we’ll help you make the right choice for both comfort and cost savings.
