AC Repair & Installation Company Serving the Philadelphia Area

In recent years, the topic of refrigerants used in air conditioning systems has garnered significant attention due to environmental concerns and regulatory changes. Many homeowners wonder whether their air conditioners still use Freon, especially as they consider maintenance or upgrades to their cooling systems. Our HVAC experts at Cold 1 Services are here to offer a closer look at the current state of refrigerants in residential air conditioning systems and how it could affect your home. 

What is Freon?

Freon is a brand name for a group of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) used historically as refrigerants in various applications, including air conditioners. The most common type of Freon used in residential air conditioning systems was R-22. Freon and similar HCFCs were favored for their efficiency and safety; however, they were later found to be detrimental to the ozone layer.

The Phase-Out of Freon

Due to the environmental impact, notably the depletion of the ozone layer, international agreements such as the Montreal Protocol mandated the phase-out of ozone-depleting substances, including R-22. In the United States, the production and import of R-22 were banned starting January 1, 2020. As a result, air conditioners using R-22 are no longer being manufactured, and the supply of R-22 is limited to recycled, reclaimed, or previously produced stocks, which are available only for servicing existing systems.

What are the Alternatives?

With the phase-out of R-22, newer and more environmentally friendly refrigerants have been developed. Different systems may need to use different kinds of refrigerants, and you will have to check your owner’s manual or consult with our expert HVAC contractors to determine which kind of refrigerant is best for your unit. 

What Does This Mean for Homeowners?

For homeowners with older air conditioning systems that still use R-22, there are a few key considerations:

1. Maintenance and Repairs: As R-22 becomes more scarce and potentially more expensive, maintaining and repairing old systems using this refrigerant will become increasingly costly and challenging. Homeowners may find it financially advantageous to replace their AC systems that use R-22 rather than pay for increasingly expensive repairs.
2. System Replacement: When replacing an old air conditioning system, new systems using modern refrigerants offer not only environmental benefits but also improvements in energy efficiency and performance. This can lead to lower energy bills and reduced environmental impact.
3. Environmental Impact: Choosing air conditioners with modern refrigerants is better for the environment and can help reduce the household’s carbon footprint.

Contact Us For AC Repair & Installation in the Philadelphia Area Today

While older air conditioners may still use Freon, the industry has largely moved away from this refrigerant in favor of more sustainable and less environmentally damaging alternatives. For homeowners, this transition means considering the future cost of maintaining older systems versus the benefits of upgrading to newer, more efficient models. If you’re facing decisions about repairing or replacing your air conditioning system, consult with one of our experts at Cold 1 Services to explore the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly options available. Contact us today!