On January 1, 2020, all air conditioning systems that run on R22 refrigerant—also known as freon—will become illegal. Freon has been found to negatively impact the ozone layer and the environment. However, most homeowners and commercial businesses still haven’t made the transition. Learn why you should switch your air conditioning system today before they’re completely eliminated.

The Impact of the Freon Phaseout

Environmental Issues

Since the 1950s, freon has been used in heating and air conditioning units to convert warm air into cool air. These units need to be refilled when R22 runs out. However, freon has recently been found to assist in thinning out the ozone layer. In response to the discovery, governments around the world started phasing out the use of freon, starting by reducing importing and production since 2003. By 2010, R22 was no longer manufactured. However, servicing older units is still allowed as long as leftover supplies exist.

Impact on Air Conditioning Systems

Although more people are replacing their units, there are still residential and commercial heating and cooling systems that use freon today. However, because of the limited and decreasing supply of R22, prices will steadily increase. In the long-term, this will make it more expensive for homeowners and business owners to run on their current cooling system.

What You Should Do

If you’re concerned about the environmental impact, there’s no question that you should replace your unit today. However, if your air conditioning unit is newer and was installed after 2010, you might not need a replacement. Confirm with an HVAC technician that you’re no longer using freon. If your unit is still currently using R22 and needs constant refills, know that you’ll save more money in the long term by replacing it with a newer system before R22 is completely phased out.

Considering replacing your air conditioning system before the phaseout? Reach out to the HVAC experts in River Valley Air Conditioning in Needles, CA, and Kingman, AZ. With over 60 years of experience, this team of technicians offer a variety of heating and cooling services including preventative maintenance, air purification, duct cleaning, and improving indoor air quality. Call (760) 326-3020 for their Needles, CA location or (928) 718-2520 for their Kingman, AZ, location. To request a service, visit their website.