Say Goodbye to R-22 Refrigerant

For decades, R-22 stood as a reliable workhorse in the world of air conditioning and refrigeration.

It was the most common refrigerant used in residential and commercial air conditioning units—until the U.S. began phasing it out in 2010 due to environmental concerns.

By 2020, it was no longer produced or imported into the country. Systems that still use R-22 and need servicing must rely on recycled and stockpiled inventory. That means you will pay top dollar for refrigerant whenever you need to service your equipment.

If your Denver commercial cooling system is over 10 years old and uses R-22, now is the right time to start thinking about replacing it with a more efficient system.

Our team at Minuteman Heating & Cooling can help you along the journey by recommending new equipment that fits your commercial needs and budget. Whether you need a local company to install a new HVAC system or someone to repair your existing system, our team is ready to help.

Why Was R-22 Phased Out?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency began a phasedown of R-22 because of its impact on the ozone layer that shields us from damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays and the risk of skin cancer.

Additionally, R-22 possesses a high global warming potential (GWP). As a greenhouse gas, R-22 has a GWP significantly higher than that of carbon dioxide.

My AC equipment still uses R-22

Businesses may continue to use equipment containing R-22. But here are a few factors to consider:

• Cost Considerations—The dwindling availability of R-22 due to the ban on its production and import has led to a significant increase in its cost. Commercial businesses that still rely on R-22 may face added expenses related to repairs, maintenance, and refrigerant refills.
  
  Transitioning to alternative refrigerants can provide cost savings in the long run, as these alternatives are often more efficient and readily available.
  
• Environmental Responsibility—Going green can foster brand loyalty with many of your customers. Plus, your Denver business will be doing its part to help the environment and preserve our state’s natural resources.
  
  In the meantime, manufacturers are transitioning to EPA-approved and eco-friendly refrigerants that have a lower global warming potential and do not hurt the ozone but are mildly flammable.

• Upgrade and Save—New equipment can reduce operating costs while providing the same comfort and indoor air quality (IAQ). A certified ENERGY STAR^® air conditioning unit is at least 14 percent more efficient than a standard new system and can save you money on your cooling bill.
  
  The service life of a packaged rooftop unit (RTU) is between 10 and 15 years. If you installed your equipment around 2010 or earlier, now is the perfect time to start budgeting for new equipment.

Unfortunately, it is not possible to empty out the R-22 in your existing equipment and replace it with a newer refrigerant because of the different operating pressures. On the plus side, installing new equipment will lower your cooling costs and reduce your carbon footprint.

Lower Your Energy Bills Today

Minuteman Heating & Cooling has heating and cooling options for all businesses in Denver, CO. Bring your commercial AC unit into regulatory compliance and achieve energy cost savings like never before. Call us today at 303-400-0111 or request service online.