{"id":944,"date":"2013-10-08T05:15:47","date_gmt":"2013-10-08T05:15:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/coolmenow.com\/blog\/2013\/10\/08\/cost-freon-r-22-continues-skyrocket\/"},"modified":"2024-10-30T14:42:52","modified_gmt":"2024-10-30T14:42:52","slug":"cost-freon-r-22-continues-skyrocket","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/coolmenow.com\/blog\/2013\/10\/08\/cost-freon-r-22-continues-skyrocket\/","title":{"rendered":"The Rising Cost of Freon (R-22) and What It Means for Your HVAC System"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you have an older <\/span>air conditioning unit<\/span><\/a>, you might have noticed an increase in maintenance costs, especially when it comes to <\/span>refrigerant<\/span><\/a>. Many older systems still use R-22 refrigerant, commonly known as Freon, which has become increasingly expensive over the past decade. As the U.S. phases out R-22 in favor of more eco-friendly refrigerants, the supply of Freon has dwindled, driving up prices significantly. This article will explore why R-22 costs are skyrocketing, what it means for Austin homeowners, and the best options if your system still uses R-22.<\/span><\/p>\n

Why Is R-22 Refrigerant So Expensive?<\/span><\/h2>\n

The high cost of R-22 stems from a global initiative to phase out hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which contribute to ozone depletion and have a high environmental impact. As part of the Clean Air Act, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandated a gradual phase-out of R-22, culminating in a complete halt on its production and import in 2020. With no new R-22 being produced, the existing supply is limited to recycled or reclaimed refrigerant, making it increasingly scarce and costly.<\/span><\/p>\n

What the R-22 Phase-Out Means for Homeowners<\/span><\/h2>\n

If your AC or heat pump system was installed before 2010, there\u2019s a good chance it still relies on R-22 refrigerant. Here\u2019s what the phase-out means for you:<\/span><\/p>\n