Your AC equipment uses a chemical refrigerant to shift warmth within your home outside. This makes your house chilled and comfortable. The type of refrigerant used in residential air conditioner has been modified a couple of times over the years, following technology advances and environmental concerns.
All updated home AC units in Gaithersburg run on R410a, also called as Puron. But this refrigerant will subsequently be phased out. This is due to a continuous focus on restricting compounds known to negatively impact the environment.
To understand the “why” that drives cooling restrictions, it’s helpful to put it into perspective. Two-thirds of the 128.5 million residences in the United States have air conditioning, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
But it’s not so much the air conditioning system itself, or even its cooling functions.
The main problem is the refrigerant this equipment need to produce the refreshing air we enjoy.
Installed after 2010
If your system was installed after January 1, 2010, it probably has R410a. And there’s lots of time for you to get ready for the phaseout. So, it’s not an issue you should be worried about at this time.
Strategies and dates have been determined for commercial AC systems. But the beginning of the phaseout for residential air conditioning systems hasn’t yet been set. However, the phaseout could commence around 2024 and take 10 years to finish.
By that time, you may need to buy a new your unit anyhow, because the ordinary life expectancy for an AC system is often 15 years.
Installed Before 2010
This compound isn’t being made anymore, but there are still lots of Gaithersburg residential AC systems that have R22. If you have to have service, it might be very pricey as only reclaimed and recycled refrigerant is attainable.
Most of the time, we recommend installing a new your equipment because of the growing costs of maintaining an air conditioner with R22. In addition, you’ll be receiving a more energy-efficient unit.
Call our Experts at 301-476-4577 right away and we’ll help you start finding an updated model.
How Do I Know What Kind Refrigerant My AC Uses?
If you’re not sure what kind of refrigerant your air conditioning has, you can look at its nameplate. This piece is typically situated on the outside condenser. Or you can check your owner’s manual.
If you’re still not able to find it, Gaithersburg residents should reach us at 301-476-4577 and we can provide support.
Why are Refrigerants Detrimental to the Environment?
Older formulas of refrigerants can damage the ozone and lead to climate change. Here’s a brief look at the history of residential air conditioner refrigerants:
- Residential air conditioners have run on R22, or Freon, for many years. Researchers found it was detrimental to the atmosphere and ozone, so production permanently stopped on January 1, 2020.
- R410a is the substitute for R22. It’s what you’ll see in all new air conditioning systems today.
What Should I Do for Now?
If your air conditioner is close to (or older than) 15 years, now’s a great time to start prepping for installation.
We understand that buying a new system can be a big expense. That’s why we provide our exclusive Advantage Program™ plus financing, With our Advantage Program, you can get an up-to-date, high-efficiency system for only one small monthly payment. And enjoy maintenance, repairs and parts at no added cost.*
Reach us at 301-476-4577 to set up an appointment right away. We’ll go over your budget and needs to help you locate the right comfort equipment for your house.