R22 refrigerant, a chemical used in older heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, is being phased out starting on January 1, 2020. This means that production and imports of this type of refrigerant will become illegal. It is a good idea to start thinking about replacing your air conditioning system. This will help you to avoid higher repair costs in the future.
What Will Happen After the R22 Phase-Out?
When the 2020 ban takes effect, the import or production of R22 in the United States will no longer be permitted. However, any of the refrigerant that is currently in the country will be unaffected. If you have a unit that uses R22, you will be able to keep using it. The law does not affect existing equipment and you do not need to make any immediate changes.
You will notice the effects of the phase-out when your air conditioning system needs to be repaired. It will also have an effect when you need to add refrigerant. Servicing existing R22 systems will become more expensive as the supply of the refrigerant dwindles. Eventually, when there is no more of this type of refrigerant available, you will need to replace your air conditioner.
Why You Should Replace Your AC Now
Although it is not strictly necessary to immediately replace your HVAC if it uses R22, we recommend that you start considering a new system. It is better to be prepared than to wait too long and run into unexpected problems.
Some of the reasons for this include:
Replace Your AC During the Cooler Months
Tucson summers are hot and you don’t want to get stuck without AC unexpectedly. If your system breaks during the summer, you may be without AC while you wait for installation. Replacing your older system now means you do not have to worry about your HVAC during the hotter months of the year.
Avoid an Unexpected Expense
Financial planning is important and no one wants to be taken by surprise by a large expense. If your system starts to malfunction after the R22 phase-out, you will have to choose between paying a higher price to repair it or getting a new system. If you start saving now or take advantage of our financing, you can make sure you are ready for the cost to replace your HVAC.
Replace Your AC Before the R22 Phase-Out
If you want to replace or repair your HVAC unit before the R22 phase-out begins, call Signature Heating and Cooling. Our skilled technicians can fix your unit or install a new one and we can help you fully prepare for this new law.