Will we ever run out of Freon?

Author: Dr. Kip Ledner  |  Last update: Thursday, October 9, 2025

The only way an air conditioner runs out of freon is if there is a leak in the pipes that carry refrigerant from one part of the unit to the other. Freon is not used up: it simply changes state from gas to liquid. Freon should never escape the pipes. However, leaks happen.

Is Freon being phased out?

On January 1, 2020, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned the production and import of R-22. But units manufactured in 2009 and earlier still use R-22 today. Its use will eventually be eliminated in the U.S., so all current and future homeowners must be prepared for the transition.

How long before Freon runs out?

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.

What will replace Freon?

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.

Can we run out of Freon?

It's important to remember that, while refrigerant shouldn't run out, it can. The only reason your air conditioner's refrigerant levels might change is if there is a leak in the copper coils or at connection points. This is a serious problem that will keep the AC system from working properly.

How do I know if I'm low on Freon?

Is Freon going to be banned?

The air conditioning refrigerant Freon has been banned in the U.S. since January 2020, prompting major changes in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry. You can still use an older air conditioning system that uses Freon, but maintaining and repairing one is growing increasingly expensive.

How much does it cost to refill Freon in AC unit?

As mentioned earlier, Freon costs about $125 – $150 per pound. Most homeowners will pay in the range of $200 to $400 for a refill, depending on the type and size of their HVAC unit.

What is the new Freon for 2025?

What refrigerant will replace R-410A in 2025? For whole-home systems, Lennox has chosen 2025 Compliant Refrigerant R-454B due to its excellent performance for ducted systems and zero ozone depletion potential. For mini-splits, we selected R-32, designed to optimize efficiency and reliability in ductless systems.

Why is the new Freon so expensive?

A Question of Supply and Demand

Therefore, maintenance people and air conditioning system specialists have less supply and are charging more for it. Some businesses have even reported thefts targeting their Freon canisters thanks to its newfound value. After 2020, R-22 won't be produced at all in the United States.

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.

Is it against the law to release Freon?

Illegal to Remove at Home

Freon is highly dangerous and regulated by the EPA. It is illegal to remove freon from an appliance unless you are a Section 608 certified professional.

How often should I add Freon to my AC?

Most ACs nowadays come shipped from the manufacturer with the exact amount of refrigerant that it will need for the duration of its life. So, unlike a car, your AC won't ever need to “fill up” on refrigerant unless something goes wrong with the system.

Can AC lose Freon without a leak?

While the refrigerant in your vehicle can escape even without a leak, it's often not enough to cause significant issues unless you've failed to top up the refrigerant for years. When the lack of refrigerant becomes significant though, it can cause a number of problems, including an overheating driver in the summer sun.

What are the rules for 2025 air conditioners?

Starting January 1, 2025, all new residential air conditioners and heat pumps must utilize A2L refrigerants. Older refrigerants like R-410, which are likely the refrigerant used by your current system, are being phased out. These new systems are designed to have a lower global warming potential (GWP).

What is the new Freon in 2024?

R-454B is the new refrigerant in 2024. By 2025, the EPA's required phaseout of R-410A will be in full effect, with production, importation, and distribution no longer allowed. HVACR businesses must be evaluating their current choices in coolant and ready to make the jump.

What refrigerant is illegal?

R-22 (Chlorodifluoromethane), also known as R22 Freon or HCFC-22 Freon, was a common refrigerant for HVAC systems. It is now a banned refrigerant that is illegal to import or manufacture.

What are they replacing Freon with?

R-410A Refrigerant: One of the first R22 alternatives to come out after the Freon ban, R-410A was soon recalled because it, too, has serious effects on the environment. R-454B Refrigerant: This refrigerant was developed to replace R-410A once it was recalled. R-454B is best suited to commercial chillers and heat pumps.

Is Freon finite?

Freon is now a finite resource, the price will continue to increase, and eventually, there will be no more.

Is Freon going away?

The recent phase-out of R-22 (also known by its popular brand name: Freon®) that occurred January 1, 2020 was years in the making. 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.

Will HVAC prices go down in 2024?

Several HVAC manufacturers have officially declared upcoming price hikes for 2024, garnering attention as a new wave of increases takes effect. There is a noticeable industry-wide trend of manufacturers elevating the prices of equipment, parts, and supplies.

Why is R-32 refrigerant banned?

Changes to the Dangerous Goods Legislation, effective in 2021, has new categories for A2L refrigerants. R32 is a synthetic greenhouse gas. If released to the atmosphere it can contribute to climate change. R32 is a flammable refrigerant.

Why do HVAC companies charge so much for Freon?

Starting in 2020, the EPA completely banned all production and importing of a common refrigerant substance known as R-22, or Freon in common terms, and that alone has driven up costs for those who still rely on old air conditioners.

How do I know if my AC is low on Freon?

Signs your AC is Low on Freon
  1. It Takes Much Longer Than It Should to Cool Off Your Home.
  2. Your Utility Bills Are Higher Than Usual.
  3. The Air Coming Out of Your Vents Isn't Cold.
  4. Ice Has Started to Build Up on Your Refrigerant Line.
  5. You Hear Loud or Unusual Noises Coming From Your Unit.
  6. Hissing or Bubbling Noise.

Can a homeowner add Freon to an AC unit?

If you need refrigerant for your air conditioner, you'll need to contact a professional heating and cooling technician. Under EPA regulations, only a certified professional can recharge your home's HVAC system.

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