Your AC system uses a chemical refrigerant to transfer warmth within your residence outside. This makes your house chilly and comfy. The type of refrigerant used in your Austin home’s air conditioner has changed a few times as time has passed, keeping up with technology advances and environmental considerations.
All modern home air conditioners in Austin run on R410a, also referred to as Puron. But this refrigerant will eventually be discontinued. This is because of a continuous concentration on limiting substances known to negatively impact the environment.
To understand the “why” that causes cooling regulation, it helps to put it into perspective. Two-thirds of the 128.5 million residences in the USA have cooling systems, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
But it’s not actually the air conditioning system itself, or even its cooling capacity.
The main problem is the refrigerant these systems use to produce the cooling we enjoy.
Installed after 2010
If your equipment was connected after January 1, 2010, it likely has R410a. And there’s a lot of time for you to prepare for the phaseout. So, it’s not something you should be worried about during this time.
Plans and schedules have been set for commercial cooling equipment. But the starting point of the phaseout for residential air conditioning systems hasn’t yet been determined. However, the phaseout could commence around 2024 and take 10 years to complete.
By then, you could need to buy a new your equipment anyhow, since the regular life expectancy for an AC system is about 15 years.
Installed Before 2010
This compound isn’t being made right now, but there are still lots of Austin residential air conditioning systems that have R22. If you have to have repairs, it could be very pricey as only recovered and recycled refrigerant is attainable.
Most of the time, we recommend buying a new your equipment because of the rising costs of keeping up an AC with R22. Plus, you’ll be gaining a more energy-efficient solution.
Give our Experts a call at 512-592-3072 now and we’ll help you start locating an updated system.
How Do I Determine What Type Refrigerant My AC Uses?
If you’re unsure what type of refrigerant your AC has, you can locate its nameplate. This piece is usually found on the outside condenser. Or you can find it in your owner’s manual.
If you still can’t locate it, Austin residents should call us at 512-592-3072 and we can help.
Why are Refrigerants Detrimental to the Environment?
Older types of refrigerants can hurt the environment and contribute to climate change. Here’s a brief look at the history of residential air conditioner refrigerants:
- Residential air conditioners have run with R22, or Freon, for a long time. Testing determined it was harmful to the atmosphere and ozone, so manufacturing permanently ended on January 1, 2020.
- R410a is the alternative for R22. It’s what you’ll find in all new air conditioners now.
What Should I Do in the Meantime?
If your air conditioning is close to (or older than) 15 years, now’s a fantastic time to begin prepping for replacement.
We understand that replacing your system can be a big expense. That’s why we provide our exclusive Advantage Program™ in addition to financing, With our Advantage Program, you can get a new, high-efficiency system for merely one little monthly payment. And get maintenance, repairs and parts at no extra price.*
Call us at 512-592-3072 to set up an appointment right away. We’ll discuss your budget and needs to help you locate the best comfort system for your home.