R22 Phaseout

Status of R-22 refrigerant in a nutshell:

• Since the 1940’s R-22 refrigerant has been used in most residential and light-commercial heat pumps and air conditioning systems.
• R-22 is efficient, non-toxic, easy-to-use and has been a critical factor in the growth of the number of air conditioned homes and offices.
• R-22 contains chlorine, and when released to the atmosphere, contributes to ozone depletion.
• The Montreal Protocol calls for the eventual phase-out of R-22 and other HCFCs.
• Beginning January 1, 2010 manufacturers of heat pumps and air conditioning units are prohibited from producing new equipment using R-22.
• New units using R-22 manufactured before 1/1/2010 can still be sold and installed.
• Production of R- 22 for use in existing equipment will be significantly reduced after 1/1/15.
• Production of R-22 will be stopped on 1/1/2020.
• After 1/1/2020 units using R-22 can only be serviced using recycled or reclaimed refrigerant.
• Due to reduced supply, the cost of R-22 will increase significantly during its phase-out.
• R-410A is a non-ozone-depleting refrigerant which has been available since the mid 1990’s and is now used in residential and light-commercial heat pumps and air conditioning units
• R-410A cannot be used in units designed for use with R-22.
• If an R-22 heat pump or condensing unit has to be replaced, typically the indoor R-22 coil must also be replaced.
• The EPA does not mandate repairing or replacing small systems because of leaks but advises that leaks not only harm the environment, but also result in increased operation and maintenance costs.
• Standard Heating has been selling and installing units using R-410A since 1996 when Carrier introduced new high-efficiency units using Puron (R-410A).
• For more detailed information, go to www.epa.gov/ozone/title6/phaseout/22phaseout.html