In the past few decades, as we have become aware as a society of the many harmful chemical materials that have been damaging the ozone layer, we have begun to regulate these materials in order to protect our planet. One such chemical that is found in our common air conditioner is now being phased out completely is Freon, or R-22.
Common FAQ About the Freon Phase-Out
What is Freon?
Freon is a CFC (chlorofluorocarbon) that works as a refrigerant and cools the warm air that enters refrigerators and air conditioning systems. Before 2003, the majority of the world’s A/C units and fridges were manufactured using Freon as the standard refrigerant. However, in 1992, The Environmental Protection Agency passed a law stating that the chemical compound must be phased out of commercial usage due to its damaging effect on the Earth’s ozone layer. The EPA mandated that all production of Freon worldwide must cease by January 2020.
What does this mean for your A/C system?
If your A/C unit or refrigerator was built after the year 2010, it probably does not use Freon. Most models that went to the market after 2010 use Puron instead. Puron has been proven to be safe for the environment.
What if your A/C system was built before 2010?
No worries — you don’t need to run out and purchase a replacement HVAC system right away. The professionals at Radiant Plumbing and Air have spent the last decade helping to phase Freon out of residential and commercial use. For our longtime customers, any A/C units that have been maintained or replaced should have switched to Puron already. Older A/C systems can still safely run on Freon up until January of next year, and likely for some time afterward.
Will you still be able to get Freon for your A/C system after January 2020?
After January 2020, Freon will no longer be created. While it will still be available, there will likely be an increase in the pricing of the world’s remaining Freon reserves before it eventually runs out completely. If you’re still looking to switch, we can help you switch to Puron before this date.
For more information on the Freon phase-out, and to find out if your system will need upgrading before January 2020, call us 833-656-4056.
