If you are noticing that fewer air conditioning services sell R22 refrigerant, or Freon, in Minneapolis, you’re not alone. Freon is being phased out of production around the world and will be no longer produced in the United States by 2020. Get to know why this is happening and what you can do to prepare with our tips below.
Environmental problems
In 1987 after the discovery of ozone depleting substances, the Montreal Protocol was signed by many countries to reduce the amount of ozone depleting substances in production. The Environmental Protection Agency found substances in Freon that are depleting the ozone layer while in use. Their regulations under the Clean Air Act, an addition to the Montreal Protocol, state that such substances must be phased out of production. Careful measures are being taken to dispose of the properties that deplete the ozone layer. These properties are called chlorofluorocarbons, or CFC, and are made by combining carbon, hydrogen, chlorine, and fluorine. When it interacts with the ozone layer, it is broken up, leaving a hole in the ozone.
Air Conditioners that use R22 refrigerant
Older air conditioners might require R22 or Freon to work efficiently. Since the phaseout started in 2004, most air conditioners built after that use R410a refrigerant, a safer compound that works well at keeping your house cool. However, if you are unsure about what refrigerant your air conditioner uses, make sure to call your HVAC specialist at Twin City Heating and Air to inspect your air conditioner.
Next steps
If you have an air conditioner that uses Freon, you might want to think about your next steps. Once Freon is no longer in production, the cost will rise. This cost added with the cost of maintaining an older air conditioner might take a hit to your finances. Our HVAC professionals advise that you replace your air conditioner with one that uses R410a refrigerant before 2020 for cost efficiency.
If you have any questions about R410a refrigerant or want to talk about your options for air conditioners, call Twin City Heating and Air. Our HVAC professionals will work with you to find your best option.
