HVAC Repairs
If your older cooling system or heat pump needs a repair related to the refrigerant, the repair could be more expensive. This is because no new R-22 is being made, and companies can no longer import it into the United States. If your air conditioner or heat pump has a leak, it may also cost more to recover what remains of the R-22. The recovery fee is higher because of the limited safe disposal options accepted by the EPA.
Recharging
Recharging of an old air conditioner or heat pump that has a refrigerant leak will be more expensive due to the limited availability of existing R-22 stocks. When HVAC companies run out, they may not be able to recharge it at all. In some cases, a retrofit to R-410a might be an option, but this can only be done by experienced HVAC technicians. The manufacturer’s warranty might be voided by performing such a retrofit.
Replacement of Your HVAC System
When R-22 is no longer available, a cooling system replacement may be your only option in order to maintain comfort. R-22 has not been used in new cooling systems and heat pumps for more than 10 years. The lifespan of an air conditioner or heat pump is about 10 years, so a system still using R-22 is due to be replaced.
For more information about how the phase-out of R-22 refrigerants could affect your air conditioning system or heat pump, check out North Tarrant Heating & Air’s air conditioning repair services or give our office a call.