Update October 2024
Significant changes in air conditioning system regulations are coming soon and will directly affect the cost of new HVAC systems.
Starting in January 2025
New federal mandates will require HVAC systems to include leak detection systems and use environmentally safer refrigerants, such as R-454B and R-32, instead of the commonly used R-410A.
These regulatory changes, designed to enhance environmental standards, are expected to increase the price of new HVAC systems. The transition involves redesigning equipment to accommodate these new refrigerants, which are mildly flammable and require additional safety features.
If You Are Planning to Replace Your AC System In The Near Future...Now May Be The Time!
This means that homeowners need to think ahead. The best time to upgrade your HVAC system is today, while prices and regulations are still the same as they are currently in place. Upgrading your system before the end of 2024 will save money and avoid higher prices later. Savings will come in the form of upfront costs of installations but also prevent any possible additional expenses and retrofits of changing systems.
Is It Time to Upgrade Your HVAC System Before Price Increase in 2025?
Upgrading now ensures you get a top-of-the-line, energy-efficient system at todays lower prices. While future systems will maintain similar efficiency levels, the new regulations will drive up costs. By acting now, you avoid these added expenses, securing the same efficiency and performance at a more affordable price. Although production of current models will be reduced, parts will still be available throughout the AC's lifetime.
Don't wait for prices to rise. Take advantage of this opportunity to upgrade your HVAC system now. Contact Hydes today to learn more about these changes and schedule your upgrade before the deadline.
R-22 Refrigerant Phase Out History
In September of 1987, with guidance from the world’s foremost climate scientists, the UN adopted the Montreal Protocol, a list of guidelines for every country on Earth to follow to prevent the depletion of the planet’s ozone layer and subsequent environmental damage.
It is to date the only UN treaty to have been ratified by all 197 member countries.
Here in the US, the Clean Air Act was passed to implement a Montreal Protocol-compliant schedule to phase out all use of Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) by January 1, 2020.
How the R-22 Phaseout Is Affecting Homeowners
Now that the January 1, 2020 deadline on the production and import of the popular HCFC-22 (R-22) refrigerant has officially passed, Southern California and Coachella Valley homeowners might be wondering...
How is this really going to impact me?
- The cost of R-22 refrigerant has increased over 50% from 2020 to 2021.
- The industry and HVAC contractors can only purchase limited quantities at this time.
While these ozone depleting products will not be taken off shelves quite yet, they will no longer be produced or imported and will eventually be removed from the market entirely.
However, the largest concern now lies in the outdated AC systems themselves, that will likely need to be replaced long before their estimated expiration. When will these seemingly suitable systems need to be replaced?
It’s hard to say, but once the remaining national recycled or stockpiled supply of R-22 Freon is depleted, those with an older HCFC system will be out of luck!
HVAC Refrigerant FAQs
Yes, but the cost is high and will continue to increase.
It shouldn’t need adding under normal usage. If you need refrigerant, there is a leak and sometimes it’s just a minor leak at the access valves.
The capacity is reduced so it doesn’t cool as well. You will notice this the hotter it is outside. It also may cause the evaporator to ice up and/or cause the compressor to overheat.
How to Reduce Monthly Maintenance Costs AND Address a Long-Term Solution
If your AC unit currently utilizes R-22 but you’re not quite ready to replace the whole system, you may want to consider converting it to operate off a more environmentally friendly and less expensive “drop-in” refrigerant. This option keeps your older system running, while avoiding the inflation rates on the dwindling R-22 supply.
Consider A Drop-In Refrigerant
Although an appealing temporary solution for many (not all older models can even accommodate a drop-in refrigerant due to the type of oil used), we will be quick to note: Our experts only advise using a drop-in refrigerant if your unit is at least 8 years old.
Converting to an alternative refrigerant such as R-407c will reduce the efficiency and expected lifespan of your R-22 dependent system, as well as void any remaining system warranty. But if it could also save you from the cost of inflated R-22 and buy you some time to budget for a full AC replacement, it might be something to consider!
Begin Budgeting For A New Air Conditioning System Now!
The lifespan of a typical air conditioner ranges anywhere from 10-15 years, so if you have an older unit you may already be budgeting for a new system. In which case, this HCFC ban is of little importance to you. However, if you haven’t yet begun budgeting for a new ac system and your current system is 10+ years old, now is the time to do your research.
When purchasing a new unit, you’ll first want to determine what type of system best suits you and your home in its current form. If an addition or large-scale renovation was completed without the enhancement of the existing system, a larger or more efficient system might be a necessity. When selecting the contractor for the job, ask these questions and more to determine the best company for such an investment.
Financing specials, in conjunction with manufacturer and/or energy star rebates are other criteria to consider. Hydes AC offers several convenient heating and air conditioning financing options, in addition to our unparalleled service, to ensure upgrading your home comfort system is as painless as possible.
Have More Questions About The EPA R-22 Phaseout?
If your air conditioning unit uses R-22 and you want to discuss switching to an alternate refrigerant or replacing your AC system, give Hydes a call at (760) 360-2202. Our family has served Coachella Valley residents for more than 37 years, and we look forward to serving you!
