While you usually have no pressing reason to concern yourself with your air conditioner’s refrigerant, there are key financial reasons to pay attention in 2018 and beyond. If your machine relies on the R-22 refrigerant, it will need to be replaced sooner rather than later. The guide below outlines the government-mandated phaseout of this refrigerant to help you understand the situation and determine the best way to proceed with your air conditioner. 

A Guide to the R-22 Phaseout

What Is the R-22 Phaseout?

R-22 is a common refrigerant that has long been used in air conditioners. But in recent years, scientists discovered that the gas has ozone-depleting properties, and its sustained use erodes the planet’s protection from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. As a result, the U.S. government has begun a phaseout of R-22 production, lowering production each year and making any new substance illegal to manufacture after January 1, 2020.  

How Will the Phaseout Effect You?

If you have an older air conditioner in your home, there is a significant chance that it relies on R-22 to produce cool air. While you will still be allowed to use your machine after the phaseout, it will be impossible for any technician to repair the unit in the event of a breakdown. Consumers face a choice: replace the system now, replace it after the machine fails, or try to retrofit a new refrigerant. 

What Should You Do?

Waiting until a breakdown could cost you dearly, as the price of a repair will keep going up as the supply of R-22 falls. Additionally, if the breakdown occurs after January 1, 2020, your home or facility could be stuck for days or even weeks in the hottest season without an air conditioner while you order a new one. By investing in a new unit now, you not only avoid the unpredictability of the inevitable machine failure, but you can also save on your monthly utility bills with a hyper-efficient new unit. If you’re satisfied with the performance of your current air conditioner, it’s worth asking an HVAC technician if your system is eligible for a retrofit. 

Barkley Blevins Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning of Lexington, KY, has established a reputation as the region’s most trusted HVAC maintenance specialist. Whether you are having trouble with your air conditioner or your furnace, the professionals are available to repair or optimize your machine. They also have a record of helping customers with R-22 refrigerant install a new unit whenever they need. To get in touch with a friendly staff member, just call (859) 252-3519. Learn more about the company by visiting their website.