For decades, homeowners have depended on R-22 refrigerants in residential air conditioning (AC) systems to keep homes comfortable and cool. Now, global regulatory changes have led to a steady phaseout of R-22.
While these regulations won’t affect homeowners currently using R-22 AC systems, this market uncertainty may cause unexpected challenges when systems require servicing or charging.
Freon 410A refrigerant is the leading hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) option recommended to replace the function of R-22 in residential AC and heat pump systems. This refrigerant has a higher cooling capacity and significantly higher pressure than R-22; therefore, it only should be used in systems specifically designed for R-410A.
Other refrigerants available to replace R-22 include:
– freon MO99 (R-438A): This refrigerant most closely matches R-22 in capacity and efficiency in most direct-expansion residential AC systems.
– freon NU-22B™ (R-422B): This refrigerant closely mimics the operating characteristics of R-22 in most residential AC systems.
– freon 407C (R-407C): This refrigerant can be used in new equipment and as a service refrigerant for existing R-22 equipment with an oil change.