HCFC-123 is not immediately banned, but it is currently being phased out globally under the Montreal Protocol and U.S. EPA regulations.
The EPA regulates the production and import of ozone-depleting hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) under Title VI of the Clean Air Act. Through this final rule, the EPA is issuing HCFC allowances for 2020 through 2029 for HCFC-123 and HCFC-124, leading up to a complete phaseout of all HCFCs in 2030.
By 01 January 2025, imports shall have been reduced by 67.5% based on the recorded baseline consumption in ODP tonnes. By this date, all importation of HCFC-123 as cooling agent for chillers and as fire extinguishing agent will likewise be absolutely prohibited, except for the servicing sector.
Both HCFC-123 and CFC-11 refrigerants are non-flammable. Under the 1995 edition of CSA-B52, "Mechanical Refrigeration Code," CFC-11 is classified as a Group A1 refrigerant whereas HCFC-123 (R-123) is a B1 refrigerant due to its higher toxicity (see Appendix 2).
While most HCFCs have been phased out, there are some uses that continue, such as for servicing refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment and in fire suppression. Learn more about common HCFCs and their uses. Some HCFCs, like HCFC-22, are also a component in refrigerant blends.
Freon™ 123 refrigerant is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) replacement for the chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) R-11 in centrifugal chillers. Benefits of using Freon™ 123 include: Low ozone depletion and excellent environmental properties.
Yes, R-12 refrigerant is still legally available. While its manufacture was banned decades ago, you can still purchase existing and reclaimed supplies.
Opteon™ XP30 (R-514A) refrigerant is a non-ozone depleting, low global warming potential (GWP) hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) based replacement for R-123.
New production and import of most HCFCs were phased out as of 2020. The most common HCFC in use today is HCFC-22 or R-22, a refrigerant still used in existing air conditioners and refrigeration equipment.
R-12 (also widely known by the trademarked name Freon) was phased out because it is a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) that destroys the Earth's vital ozone layer.
Because they still contain chlorine and have the potential to destroy stratospheric ozone, they are viewed only as temporary replacements for the CFCs.
The use of firecrackers with Barium and those not approved by the NEERI as green cracker, shall not be permitted and if found for sale or in the possession of individuals/traders, the same shall be confiscated immediately. There shall be no manufacture or sale of firecrackers joined in series (laris).
In summary, although the HCFC-123 refrigerant may be more environmentally friendly than CFC-11, it is more toxic and poses a greater potential health risk to people working with and around it. Both HCFC-123 and CFC-11 refrigerants are nonflammable.
The HVAC and commercial refrigeration industries are undergoing a massive shift to "A2L" (mildly flammable, low-toxicity) refrigerants. Driven by federal AIM Act mandates and EPA rules, new residential systems and commercial units must meet strict GWP limits. If you are buying new equipment, you will see it using R-454B or R-32.
HCFC-123 is currently imported or reclaimed for use as a refrigerant and for the manufacture of a fire suppression agent used in handheld extinguishers, wheeled extinguishers, and aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) vehicles in commercial, industrial, transportation, and military applications in the United States.
One of the primary reasons for the switch from R-134a to 1234YF refrigerant is environmental impact. Traditional refrigerants like R-134a contribute significantly to global warming. While R-134a doesn't harm the ozone layer like older refrigerants (such as R-12), it still has a high Global Warming Potential (GWP).
Yes, HCFC-22 (commonly known as R-22) is still available for servicing older HVAC units, but it can no longer be manufactured or imported. You are now strictly reliant on recycled, recovered, or previously produced and stockpiled quantities.
Freon™ Hot Shot-2 (R-417C) is a non-ozone depleting A1 refrigerant that can be used as a direct replacement into existing systems that are still operating with R-12, R-134a, or R-500.
The total phaseout for all HCFC refrigerants is scheduled for the year 2030. Under this international and federal timeline, the production and import of all remaining virgin HCFCs will cease entirely, meaning future servicing will rely solely on reclaimed, recycled, or recovered supplies.
While the production of new R12 is banned, it is not illegal to sell or use R12. In fact, many of the cylinders and cans of Freon R12 sold for decades throughout the United States are still around today.
HCFC-123 refrigerant is used in chillers and industrial process refrigeration (IPR).
January 1, 2025: Manufacturers stopped producing new R-410A residential split systems and heat pumps. Equipment manufactured before this date can still be sold and installed. January 1, 2026: The original deadline for installing R-410A split systems manufactured before 2025.
He said that a lot of people look to buy it and it could be well worth over $1000.
Yes, R32 is not only currently available, but it is the primary EPA-approved replacement for older refrigerants like R410A in new ductless and mini-split air conditioning systems.
Yes, it is legal to sell existing supplies of R-12 (Freon). However, the production of new R-12 is banned, and the EPA strictly regulates its sale.