Every A/C relies on refrigerant to keep the air in your home blowing cold. Many units still use the refrigerant R22, which is now being phased out by government regulations and is becoming increasingly costlier to service. In fact, the coolant will actually be illegal by the year 2020. Therefore, homeowners with units that rely on R22 need to consider their options.

Why Is the Government Banning R22?

In the mid-2000’s, world leaders united for a Clean Air Act meeting, where they discussed outlawing compounds that were considered hazardous to our air, including R22. Each of these compounds was deemed an ODS (Ozone Depleting Substance). Due to this meeting, the importing and manufacturing of R22 was banned in 2010. By the year 2020, the federal EPA will completely phase out the compound, making selling and servicing R22 illegal.

What Does This Mean for Homeowners That Rely on R22?

R22 was used in A/C units manufactured through 2015, meaning that many newer units still use the compound. As 2020 approaches, it will become harder and more expensive to find an air conditioning contractor to recharge your system with R22. Once the compound becomes officially illegal, you won’t find a reliable and certified company to recharge the coolant at all, meaning you’ll need to consider other options once the unit begins to blow warm air.

How Can You Address This Issue in Your Home?

For homeowners with A/C’s that use R22, you have two options: either have the R22 removed and disposed of or replace the system completely. If you choose to remove the R22, a licensed contractor can safely dispose of it, replacing it with an eco-friendly alternative that is up to government standards.

While this option may be cost-effective up front, choosing to replace your R22 A/C system completely is the ideal solution. Today’s HVAC units feature new technology that makes them more quiet, powerful, and efficient. This improves your comfort and reduces energy bills each month, all while shrinking your household’s carbon footprint and helping protect the Earth’s ozone layer. 

Looking for a reliable A/C contractor to help you make the switch from R22 to an approved refrigerant sooner than later? Get ahead of the curve by contacting Butler Heating & Air in West Plains, MO. Servicing Howell County’s HVAC systems for more than 20 years, this trusted company offers emergency 24/7 service and is dedicated to helping each and every customer feel comfortable in their home or business. To schedule a repair or new A/C installation today, give their friendly team a call at (417) 256-7984. You can also find out more about the services they offer by visiting their website.