Do you have an air-conditioning (A/C) unit that is more than 10 years old? If you do, you may be surprised to learn that within the next eight years, the refrigerant used in many older A/C units, known as R-22, will be phased out. Why? Because changing refrigerant laws are mandating that its use stop entirely by 2020, because of its harmful impact to the earth’s ozone layer.
There are negative environmental effects associated with R-22, which is why the changing refrigerant laws were implemented. When released into the atmosphere, the refrigerant by-products destroy the ozone. For this reason, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency years ago began reducing the amounts of R-22 in use in this country leading up to the 2020 deadline.
With the majority of air-conditioning systems produced before 2007 relying on R-22 refrigerant, the price for it is expected to continue climbing as the it becomes more scarce. For this reason, many contractors are recommending that you make the investment to replace or modify your system now, rather than have to do it down the line, all the while, paying higher costs for refrigerant.
R-410A is the new preferred refrigerant for air conditioning systems, and it results in greater heat transfer than R-22. This means that it is more efficient and easier for smaller systems to handle, and it does not impact the ozone layer. All new HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) systems utilize this type of refrigerant.
Have more questions about changing refrigerant laws? The experts at Paitson Bros. Heating & Air Conditioning can explain the situation to you in greater detail. We’ll help you determine whether you should wait out the change or invest in a upgraded system sooner rather than later. We’ve been serving residential and commercial customers in the Terre Haute area since 1922, and can help you with all of your heating and cooling needs.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about changing refrigerant laws and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Paitson Bros. Heating and Air Conditioning services Terre Haute, Indiana. Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!
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