If you have an AC system that is more than about 10 years old, certain restrictions may apply to your unit. For example, if your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant, you should know that this particular chemical will be phased out completely within the next couple of years. Butler Heating & Air in West Plains, MO, wants you to know more about how the discontinuation of R-22 refrigerant will affect you. Below, they offer more insight on this news. 

Why It’s Happening

For the past several decades, R-22 has been a go-to refrigerant in the AC industry, permitting air conditioners across the country to blow cool and comfortable air. However, R-22 refrigerant contains harmful toxins, such as chlorine, which deplete the ozone layer and contribute to climate change. For the sake of clean air and environmental health, the EPA has mandated that R-22 be completely discontinued by the year 2020. After this point, the use of the chemical will become illegal.

What You Should Do

If your AC unit was manufactured or installed prior to 2010, it most likely uses R-22 refrigerant. For the next two years, you may continue to use R-22 refrigerant, although it is becoming increasingly expensive as more companies cease to manufacture it. Using recycled R-22 is also an option, but you’ll still need to come up with a more sustainable plan by 2020. The best thing to do is contact your air conditioning contractor to ask about installing compliant replacement parts in your existing unit. However, if you’re looking for a better long-term solution, upgrade your unit to a more modern and eco-friendly AC system.

For HVAC solutions that are energy efficient and environmentally friendly, invest in products and services from Butler Heating & Air. Give this air conditioning contractor a call at (417) 256-7984 today for an estimate on a new AC system. To learn more about HVAC installation and repair services, visit them online.