You
might wish that summer could go on and on – until it comes time to recharge
your air conditioning system.
The cost of the common refrigerant R-22 (also known as Freon), widely used in residential air conditioning systems, has already increased by more than 400 percent in the past 18 months and is expected to go even higher, making air conditioning repairs more costly for many.
R-22 has
been the refrigerant of choice for residential heat pump and air conditioning
systems for more than four decades, but it has been identified as having a
negative environmental impact, including contributing to ozone depletion. Under
EPA regulations, R-22 is being phased out, with production totally prohibited
after 2020.
This has
added new considerations for homeowners who are considering whether to repair
or replace an air conditioning unit. For instance, some refrigerant
manufacturers have begun selling cheaper alternatives to R-22, often referred
to as “drop-in” replacement refrigerants. But alternatives are cheaper only in
the short run.
One of
the leading air conditioning manufacturers, has conducted research that shows
these cheaper alternate refrigerants are not compatible with the lubricating
oil used in R-22 units. Recharging older air conditioners with these
alternative refrigerants may actually damage the system and void your
manufacturer’s warranty. As a result, we’ve instructed our technicians to
follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and use only R-22 when they recharge
R-22 systems.
Reclaimed
and recycled R-22 is expected to be available to repair existing systems after
production ceases in 2020, but as the supply of new R-22 refrigerant continues
to be reduced, costs of both new and recycled R-22 refrigerant will increase
significantly.
All new
air conditioning systems now use a more environmentally friendly refrigerant,
R410A. These newer systems offer many benefits, including greater energy
efficiency, longer warranty periods and quieter operation, and may prove to be
the wiser investment when homeowners are faced with repairing an older system
that uses R-22 refrigerant.
There is
no one-size-fits-all answer about whether to repair or replace your R-22 AC.
It really does depend on the individual family, their home, their
lifestyle and their budget. Surgi's technicians are trained to spend
considerable time working through all these factors with our customers and help
them make the most informed decision, and we’re happy to answer homeowner
questions on this topic. Reprinted
from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Need a
new system? Surgi's can help. Need a healthier, more comfortable
life? We can change the way you feel about your home.
Call 469-4232 for a free estimate today!
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