As Freon was phased out, new HVAC systems began using a refrigerant known as Puron® or R-410A, an HFC. More efficient and less harmful to the environment, R-410A has been in use since its introduction in 1996 and is found in most of today's modern HVAC systems.
While we still service HVAC equipment using Freon, most residential HVAC units are now using Puron® or R-410A, a type of hydrocarbon refrigerant without the chlorine. The reason for the switch was to reduce the impact that the gasses have on the ozone layer and the environment.
Most homeowners will pay in the range of $200 to $400 for a refill, depending on the type and size of their HVAC unit. If you own a larger r22 unit, you may have to spend $600 or more. To break this down for you, a 25lbs unit of r410A costs anything between $100 and $175.
R-32 is another refrigerant gaining popularity as a replacement for Freon. It has a lower GWP than R-410A, making it a better choice for the environment. R-32 is also highly efficient, which means it can reduce energy consumption and help lower utility costs.
The first type is R-134a, which replaced the refrigerant commonly known as “freon.” The other is R-1234yf, which is an even more environmentally friendly refrigerant than R-134a. Finding out which refrigerant your vehicle uses is easy with the help of A/C Pro®.
Why Is R-134A Being Phased Out? When Is the Phaseout Expected to Conclude? Like a lot of '90s relics, R-134A has not aged well. It was known then that 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane could potentially contribute to acid rain and that its ozone layer depletion potential was high.
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.
R-454b Will Be the New (New) Refrigerant Starting January 1st, 2023. In 2010 when I started my venture into the HVAC industry, I was coming in during a time of transition. Our industry was changing from systems that had R-22 refrigerant circulating through their lines to R-410a.
R-407C is often used as a replacement for Freon. It has similar thermodynamic properties and is a popular choice for manufacturing new machines.
A High-Performing Alternative to R-134a
Opteon™ XL10 (R-1234yf) refrigerant is a non-ozone depleting (ODP) hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) option that meets the industry's growing demands for sustainable, safe, and effective solutions.
Generally speaking, a properly maintained air conditioner can expect its refrigerant to last around 10-15 years or longer—depending on usage frequency and environmental wear and tear. To ensure your refrigerant lasts as long as possible, regular maintenance is key.
Under EPA regulations, only a certified professional can recharge your home's HVAC system.
A Question of Supply and Demand
Even though Freon is still being produced, the supply has dwindled as producers have cut back in anticipation of lower demand. Therefore, maintenance people and air conditioning system specialists have less supply and are charging more for it.
If you put the newer freon in right away, your unit will rupture due to the force. However, you can convert your AC unit to handle R410A. You'll need to replace the compressor, condenser, evaporator, and likely the refrigerant tubing. If you replace all of this, your old unit will work fine with the new freon.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began the phase out of Freon in 1992 when it ordered the ban that took effect in 2020. Because of the long phase-in starting in 2010, new air conditioning, heat pumps, and refrigeration systems stopped using Freon, which is also known as HCFC-22 and R-22.
In fact, most units only need to be recharged once every two to five years – and sometimes even longer than that. The main exception to this rule is if there's a leak in the system, which will cause the refrigerant level to drop over time.
As Freon was phased out, new HVAC systems began using a refrigerant known as Puron® or R-410A, an HFC. More efficient and less harmful to the environment, R-410A has been in use since its introduction in 1996 and is found in most of today's modern HVAC systems.
Why Did The U.S Ban R22 Refrigerant? The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has banned R22 freon in the country. Why? R22 contributes to the depletion of the ozone layer – which absorbs the ultraviolet radiation from the sun and protects us from its harmful effects – and the ecosystem in general.
Like mentioned above, different refrigerants have different sitting temperatures. Like oil and water different refrigerants do not mix, so you have different temperatures cycling through your system. This can lead your AC system to overheat and a burnt motor, a costly repair.
R-407C. Featuring thermodynamic properties similar to R-22, R-407C is a common Freon replacement. Many new AC models are engineered to work with it. However, this refrigerant has been used in commercial cooling and refrigeration equipment since the early 1990s.
In December 2022, the EPA unveiled a refrigerant ban that will go into effect between 2025 and 2026 (depending on the industry). The result? R-410A is out, shaking up the HVACR industry, which relies heavily on this refrigerant.
The replacements for R-410A are the two A2Ls, Forane® R-32 and R-454B. Forane® R-32 can be used in new equipment designed specifically for mildly flammable refrigerants as a replacement for R-410A equipment. Its low density allows for the use of a smaller refrigerant charge.
The average cost of an AC recharge is $300. Typically, homeowners pay between $200 and $500, depending on several factors, including the AC type, size, and age, the cost of refrigerant, and more.
One of the most obvious signs that your vehicle needs a Freon recharge is that your vehicle will be blowing warm air, even after your vehicle has been running for some time. If your refrigerant gets too low, there will simply not be enough “coolant” to cool the air as it is passed through your evaporator coil.
While O'Reilly Auto Parts cannot recharge your vehicle's air conditioning system for you, we carry the parts, tools, and helpful resources to help you get the job done right.