Is R22 Illegal? (Freon) Refrigerant Phase-Out in Northern NJ

Have you heard that R22 is illegal? If so, that's not true.

Here, we clear up false ideas about the R22 (Freon) refrigerant phase-out and explain its legality. Don't believe false information; let's examine the real effects of the R22 phase-out directly from the EPA and its impact on HVAC systems.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date details on the phasing out of R22 Freon, it's crucial to visit the official EPA website.

What should I do if my HVAC system uses R22?

If your HVAC system uses R22, you have a few options:

• Continue Using R22: As long as your system is functioning properly, you can continue to use R22 from existing supplies.
• Retrofit Your System: Modify your existing system to use a more environmentally friendly refrigerant.
• Replace Your System: Consider upgrading to a new system that uses modern refrigerants.

For personalized advice, contact a local HVAC professional who can assess your specific situation and recommend the best course of action.

Is R22 Freon Refrigerant Really Illegal?

The answer is NO, especially for residential and light commercial setups (with a refrigerant charge of 50 lbs or less).

We've never come across a residential air conditioner unit that uses 50 lbs of refrigerant. The official EPA website doesn't even mention the term "Illegal".

Explanation:

It's crucial to clarify that R22 is legal for residential and light commercial systems as long as they hold a full refrigerant charge of 50 lbs or less. Most residential air conditioner units use much less than 50 lbs of refrigerant, staying well within the allowed range.

Moreover, the official EPA website doesn't use the term "illegal" when talking about R22 in existing systems. Homeowners can be confident they're not breaking any laws by continuing to use R22 in their current HVAC systems, as long as they adhere to the EPA's refrigerant usage guidelines.

By sharing this information, we aim to dispel the myth that R22 is completely illegal and clarify how the R22 phase-out actually impacts residential and light commercial HVAC systems. This empowers homeowners to make informed decisions about their HVAC maintenance and servicing, ensuring optimal system performance while staying environmentally responsible.

The EPA R22 "Phase Out": What's Changed:

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), acting under the Clean Air Act, has taken significant steps to safeguard the environment by phasing out HCFCs like R22 and other substances that contribute to global warming.

This ban affects the manufacture, import, and use of R22 in new air conditioning systems. However, it's crucial to understand that existing HVAC systems can still receive maintenance and R22 refills, especially in residential and light commercial settings. Homeowners can be confident that they're not violating any laws by continuing to use R22 in their current systems.

So, What Does "R22 Phased Out" Really Mean?

Exactly as it sounds.Quoting the EPA directly:

No Immediate Change Is Required

HCFC-22, commonly referred to as R-22, is used as a refrigerant in many applications, including residential air-conditioning (AC) systems. U.S. production and import of HCFC-22 ended on January 1, 2020, but you may continue to use HCFC-22 in your existing system for as long as necessary. HCFC-22 that is recovered and reclaimed, along with HCFC-22 produced prior to 2020, will help meet the needs of owners of existing HCFC-22 systems. - Word By Word from the EPA website.

After January 1, 2020, the manufacture and import of R22 Freon were prohibited in the United States. It's important to clarify that this ban affects:

• R22 refrigerant suppliers, importers, and manufacturers like Honeywell, Dupont Refrigeration, and others.
• Air conditioning and refrigeration manufacturers such as Trane, Goodman, Rheem, and more.

However, existing R22 supplies can still be utilized for servicing existing equipment, with some exceptions for large industrial systems and those with high leak rates.

Therefore, if you have a residential air conditioner that uses R22 Freon, you can still replenish it with R22.

An important factor to consider is that the availability and cost of R22 have significantly risen due to its limited supply. Consequently, depending on your air conditioner's age, replacing the unit might sometimes be a more practical option. Such decisions require individual assessments, varying from one air conditioner to another.

Common Causes for Low R22 Pressure

Your air conditioner operates as a sealed system, meaning once it's charged, the refrigerant level should remain constant NEVER diminish. However, there are occasions when a system may need a refill of freon. Signs of low R22 levels become apparent when the AC partially or fully freezes, or when it fails to cool properly. Below are the primary causes of low R22 levels:

• Freon Leaks: For simplicity, we discuss two types of Freon leaks (learn more)
  • Worth Repairing: These leaks occur at the Schrader valve or Lineset microleak and are typically worth fixing.
  • Not Worth Repairing: Leaks in the Evaporator Coil or Condenser Coil are usually not worth repairing due to the complexity and cost involved.
• Low Initial Freon Charge: Incorrect charging during installation, especially in systems installed during winter or under unfavorable conditions, can lead to low system performance. As the system ages, ductwork develops leaks, air filters become dirty, and periodic tune-ups may be neglected, requiring the addition of a few ounces of R22.
• Remodeling, Extensions, and "Improvements": Home improvements such as room additions or renovations can increase the load on the AC system. While some systems may handle these changes, adjustments to the freon level may be necessary to ensure continued efficiency. Alternatively, installing a Mini-Split system can be a viable solution.
• Prior Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential, but each time the freon level is measured, some may be trapped in the manifold gauge hoses, leading to gradual loss over time. Typically between 1 to 3 oz with each intervention. If the freon level is checked every year for five consecutive years, the system may lose between 5 to 15 ounces of R22 freon. Using Low-LOSS gauges, whether analog or digital, can help prevent this loss and ensure optimal performance.

Testo Low Loss Test Probes

FieldPiece Low Loss Test Probes

Debunking Misleading Claims about R22 Legality

Uufortunately, some HVAC companies exploit the notion of the "EPA phased out R22" to pressure homeowners into unnecessary AC replacements. The truth is, R22 remains legal for servicing existing systems, empowering homeowners to make informed decisions regarding their HVAC requirements.

Be cautious of deceptive strategies and seek a second opinion if uncertain about your system's status. An honest evaluation typically incurs a modest fee, whereas a full replacement can translate to significant expenses. Furthermore, be aware that replacing R22 systems may entail transitioning to R410A as a refrigerant.

Hold on a moment! Did you know that HFC R410A is also slated for phase-out in 2023 due to its high Global Warming Potential GWP of 2088?

Insights from Trusted HVAC Experts on R22

While we're producing videos to empower our customers with better information for making R22-related decisions, we've curated these insightful videos for your reference. Feel free to explore additional content:

Brian Orr, Founder of HVAC School, on the Legality of R22

Updated Position on R22 Freon by FoxFamily Owners

Service Guidelines for Recharging R22 Air Conditioning Units

As previously mentioned, in accordance with EPA regulations, homeowners can still have their residential air conditioning units containing R22 serviced and recharged. It's crucial to engage a reputable HVAC service provider, ensuring that technicians possess EPA Section 608 certification to handle refrigerants or equipment containing HCFC-22.

Following the EPA's recommendations, regular preventive maintenance is essential to prevent or promptly identify leaks. Essentially, the EPA urges owners and technicians to identify and repair leaks rather than simply "topping off" leaking systems, thereby minimizing potential environmental harm and safeguarding the ozone layer's integrity.

Managing R22 Refrigerant Leaks

Dealing with refrigerant leaks is a serious matter that demands attention. Our company has a dedicated section focused on resolving Freon leaks efficiently.

Operating within the guidelines of the EPA Clean Air Act and adhering to existing regulations (40 CFR Part 82, Subpart F) concerning refrigerant leaks, it's imperative for our customers to grasp the full implications and make well-informed choices regarding addressing refrigerant leaks.

How to Identify if Your System Uses R22

To find out if your air conditioning system uses R22, look for labels on the unit that specify the type of refrigerant. You can also check the owner's manual or consult with a certified HVAC technician.

Alternative Refrigerants for R22

With R22 being phased out, it is important to know about alternative refrigerants like R410A and R407C, MO99. These refrigerants are more environmentally friendly and can be used in new systems. However, keep in mind that R410A is also phased-out in 2023 due to its high Global Warming Potential (GWP).