What gas is in the R-22?

Author: Terence Herman  |  Last update: Wednesday, June 25, 2025

R22 refrigerant gas is composed of Difluorochloromethane, also known as Monochlorodifluoromethane, freon, abbreviated as HCFC-22, and its chemical formula is CHClF2. R22 refrigerant gas is a hydrogen-containing chlorofluorocarbon, a colorless gas with a slightly sweet smell.

What type of gas is R-22?

HCFC-22 Gas, or more commonly known as R22, is a common refrigerant which has been extensively used in small and packaged air-conditioning equipment. R22 is a Hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC), which has been identified under Montreal Protocol on Substances as being a gas which depletes the Ozone layer.

Can you flush R-22 to R-410A?

When you replace an air conditioner or heat pump and upgrade from R-22 to R-410A, the ideal solution is to replace your refrigerant lines. This is because the mineral oil used in R-22 systems is not compatible with the new R-410A refrigerant and oil.

Is R-22 gas harmful to humans?

Contains Chlorodifluoromethane , an HCFC substance which harms public health and the environment by destroying ozone in the upper atmosphere. Destruction of the ozone layer can lead to increased ultraviolet radiation which, with excess exposure to sunlight, can lead to an increase in skin cancer and eye cataracts.

What can I replace R22 Freon with?

The primary replacement refrigerant for R-22 is R-410A. R-410A is a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) that does not deplete the ozone layer and has a higher efficiency compared to R-22. As R-22 is being phased out due to environmental regulations, other alternatives that have gained attention include:

What is R22 and How Does it Affect You?

Is there a refrigerant you can mix with R-22?

So… what refrigerant can be mixed with R-22? None. You can't mix refrigerants.

Will AutoZone recharge my AC?

An AC leak will lead to warmer air from your vents over time. In most cases this can be fixed with a proven stop leak additive to seal up any leaks. When it's time for an AC recharge, turn to AutoZone.

Why is R22 banned?

R22 is being phased out because it harms the ozone and causes global warming. This means less production and use, eventually banning it in new equipment. Switching to alternatives with lower global warming potential can greatly reduce cooling systems' carbon footprint. Old A/C systems often use R22 refrigerant (Freon).

Which is the most harmful gas for humans?

Nitrogen Dioxide

NO2 is the most harmful of these compounds and is generated from the combustion of fuel engines and industry. It can damage the human heart and lungs and it reduces atmospheric visibility at high concentrations. Finally, it is a critical precursor to the formation of ground-level ozone.

What is the most flammable refrigerant?

A3 refrigerants, like propane (R290) and isobutane (R600a), are highly flammable and are considered even more environmentally friendly than A2Ls. Class A3 refrigerants include R-170 (ethane), R-290 (propane), R-600 (butane), and R-600A (isobutane).

What happens if you accidentally put 410A in a R-22 system?

Since R410A refrigerant is charged under higher pressure, charging an R22 system with it will increase the force within the coolant lines. The pressure can become high enough for parts of the system to rupture. At the very least, leaks will occur. Mixing refrigerants is not an option either.

How much does it cost to convert R-22 to R-410A?

How much will an R-22 to R-410A conversion cost? The actual cost will depend on many things, including where you live, but most of the time R-22 conversions start at around $2,000 and go up from there. The higher end of that range is somewhere around $4,500 to $4,600.

What refrigerant is drop-in replacement for R-22?

The information below will try to dispel some of these myths. Arkema recommends using Forane® 427A (R427A) - The EASY RETROFIT™ for your r-22 retrofit solution. When it comes to drop-ins, the truth is that there are none. The hope of “drop-in” refrigerants has become common over the years.

Is 410A being phased out?

As R-410A is phased out, A2L refrigerants are emerging as the primary alternatives due to their lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) and reduced environmental impact. Refrigerants like R-32 and R-454B are leading the charge, offering a GWP that is significantly lower than R-410A.

Can R22 still be purchased?

In 2010, the U.S. stopped the sale of newly manufactured residential air conditioning units and heat pumps that use R-22 because of its particularly harmful impact on the ozone layer when released into the air. On January 1, 2020, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned the production and import of R-22.

What PSI is R22 gas?

For R-22 refrigerant, suction pressure is usually between 60 to 70 PSI, and discharge pressure is around 250 to 300 PSI.

What is the odorless gas that kills people?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a gas that can kill you quickly. It is called the “silent killer” because it is colorless, odorless, tasteless and non- irritating.

What is phosgene used for?

Phosgene is a chemical used to make plastics and pesticides. At room temperature (70°F), phosgene is a poisonous gas. With cooling and pressure, phosgene gas can be changed into a liquid so that it can be shipped and stored.

What is the most poisonous gas in Earth?

CO or carbon monoxide is considered to be the most toxic gas as it shows high affinity to haemoglobin. Carbon monoxide combines with haemoglobin to form carboxyhemoglobin that causes trouble in breathing and can lead to death by suffocation.

What is the best replacement for R-22?

Freon MO99 is the gold standard for R-22 alternatives and was developed by the same scientists who engineered Freon R-22. The benefits of Freon MO99 include: Capacity — The ability of Freon MO99 to heat or cool a given space is closer to Freon R-22 than any other refrigerant on the market.

What Freon is being phased out?

R-22 is an HCFC refrigerant that is often used in air-conditioning equipment. To protect the Earth's protective ozone layer, the United States is phasing out R-22, along with other chemicals.

How much is R22 Freon per pound?

R-22 refrigerant prices range from $90 to $250 per pound. Since you'll need between 6 and 12 pounds to refill a home AC, costs can reach between $660 and $2,400 for a refill of R-22 refrigerant.

Will Jiffy Lube put Freon in my car?

If all that's needed is to have your system charged, the team at Jiffy Lube® can perform this service for you. They will remove the old refrigerant, vacuum test the system, and recharge your air conditioner with the right refrigerant.

How much do mechanics charge to recharge AC?

A professional AC recharge typically ranges from $150 to $300. This cost reflects the expertise required and the equipment used to ensure a proper recharge. On the other hand, a DIY recharge kit costs between $40 and $60. While this is a more affordable option, it requires careful handling to avoid issues.

How many cans of Freon does a car need?

Most cars hold between 28 and 32 ounces of refrigerant (or about 2—3 12oz cans), however larger vehicles and those with rear A/C will likely hold more. Check your vehicle manual for the system capacity for your specific vehicle.

Previous article
Can you replace just a section of baseboard?
Next article
Should my fireplace damper be fully open?