The U.S. EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) along with the environmental agencies from many other nations around the globe have joined forces to phase out Freon. Scientific evidence has shown that Freon, otherwise known in the HVAC industry as 'R-22', damages the ozone layer that shields the earth from harmful ultraviolet sun rays. However, many consumers who still own older air conditioners and heat pumps that use Freon coolant are left wondering if their system can be recharged still.
The phase out is taking place over the course of approximately 20 years, and an existing system that uses Freon can be recharged until January 1st, 2020. However, due to a decrease in supply as a result of the phase out, the cost has significantly increased as of late. Homeowners who need to recharge their system due to a Freon leak or otherwise may find that they will have to spend several hundred dollars to do so.
In January 2010, air conditioning manufacturers stopped making equipment that uses Freon. When a Freon coolant system breaks down or starts leaking the homeowner must decide between repair and replacement, and it's only going to get more and more expensive as Freon becomes more difficult to obtain. For many homeowners a system upgrade is the better choice, economically in the long run, and environmentally. Newer systems use R-410A coolant, otherwise known as Puron, which is just as efficient as Freon without the negative environmental side-effects.
It's true that you can still buy Freon, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't start planning ahead toward your next air conditioner. An upgrade could net you lower energy bills and lower environmental impact today, so give us a call!
Charlotte and the surrounding area is our home as well and we are here for you! At Parks Heating & Cooling we have over 35 years of HVAC experience. Locally owned and Operated we service all makes and models. From a new air conditioner to questions about geo-thermal installations, we are your one source for all things HVAC. (704) 596-8200
