The stratospheric ozone layer protects the planet from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet radiation. Emissions of some synthetic chemicals damage the ozone layer, and they’ve created a hole over the South Pole. The United States continues to regulate and phase out substances that deplete the ozone, one of which is now R-22 refrigerant. If your home in Neptune Beach, Florida, has an air conditioner that uses R-22, read on to learn about the upcoming phase-out.

What’s R-22 Refrigerant?

Hydrochlorofluorocarbons, also known as HCFCs, are chemicals often used as refrigerants. R-22 is an HCFC refrigerant used in many air conditioning systems. The United States has been phasing out this refrigerant for almost a decade, and the Environmental Protection Agency has banned the manufacture of new air conditioners that contain R-22. Here are some things homeowners in Neptune Beach should keep in mind about this refrigerant phase-out:

• It’ll impact you when you repair, replace or service your existing air conditioner.
• Supplies of R-22 will come more limited and the price of it will increase.
• R-22 remains available for servicing air conditioning equipment made before 2010.

Can I Still Have My Current Air Conditioner Serviced?

If your current air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant, you’ll still be able to have it serviced. But as time passes and supplies of R-22 become more limited, you’ll likely notice an increase in the cost to repair your AC system. Replacing your current air conditioner with an AC system that uses R-401A refrigerant will become more beneficial.

When Should I Replace My AC System?

Since the EPA has banned the manufacturing of air conditioners that use R-22, all new systems will comply with the current regulations. If you’ve purchased a new air conditioner in the last 10 years, it’s likely you have a system that contains R-410A refrigerant. The leading manufacturers are already developing new refrigerants that will comply with EPA regulations. You can expect that R-410A will eventually get phased out, too. If your AC system is approaching 10 years old or not operating efficiently, now’s a great time to start thinking about replacing it. Remember to keep these things in mind when doing so:

• Air conditioners with higher seasonal energy efficiency ratios (SEER) save more energy.
• Air conditioners with an ENERGY STAR® label are at least 14 percent more efficient than standard AC systems.
• Systems that use R-410A refrigerant are more environmentally friendly than those that use R-22.

Are you searching for a new air conditioner that’s highly efficient and environmentally friendly? Contact Ocean State Air Conditioning & Heating today at (904) 574-5619 to learn about our selection of state-of-the-art AC systems.

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