If you have an older HVAC system dating prior to 2010, it probably runs on R-22 (Freon) refrigerant. However, a law passed in 2010 banned the production and importing of Freon after 2020. This means that while your HVAC system might still be running A-OK, its days are limited.
There are still Freon reserves out there, but they’re running low – and prices are skyrocketing. As of mid-2022, wholesale prices were around triple what they were in 2020. Those prices will only increase as reserves dwindle. If your system is low on Freon, you’re generally looking at 3-10lb to top it up, so costs can very quickly add up.
How to know what refrigerant your system uses
Not sure what kind of refrigerant your system uses? Checking the system’s age and installation date will give you a clue. Additionally, you can check your model number and go online to find the manufacturer’s specifications, or find the refrigerant type on the unit’s data plate. The team at Shaw can also help you out if you’re not sure.
In general, a system installed prior to 2010 probably uses R-22 (Freon) or R410A (Freon’s replacement, which is also being phased out). If it was installed after 2010, it uses R410A.
Do I need to replace my Freon system?
If your system is running fine, and there’s no evidence of a refrigerant leak, there’s no need to do anything for now. (Although remember that on average the lifespan of an HVAC system is 10-20 years, so a replacement might be on the cards in future!)
If your system has a significant Freon leak (you can identify this from ice build-up on your evaporator coils or copper lines), replacement of the outdoor unit and indoor evaporator with ones using R410A is unfortunately the best solution. With the high costs of R22, there are few cases where repair over replacement is financially worth it, especially with any R22 system being 12 years old or more. If your system is around 10 years old and has a small leak, it might make financial sense to top up the Freon and delay replacement, although leaks may increase in size over time. If your system is at the end of its life, you might be better off investing in a new system running on R-32 and R-454b (the “new, new” refrigerants!) as they are rolled out and available in the next few years.
While retrofitting your system might seem like a good middle path, this can be costly, and can also void your warranty. And with the new incentives for installing environmentally friendly HVAC systems included under the Inflation Reduction Act, now could be the right time to upgrade your system!
Let Shaw help with your Freon HVAC situation
If you have an old-fashioned Freon system and you’re weighing whether to keep it running or to install a new, more eco-friendly model, talk to the team at Shaw. We’ll walk you through your options so that you can make the best choice for your home – and your budget – while ensuring that your system is in line with the rapidly changing HVAC codes.