Blog

Refrigerant is the chemical that allows air conditioners to rapidly cool air. For many years, Freon, also called R-22, was the refrigerant of choice in most heating and air conditioning systems. However, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) discovered Freon could deplete the ozone layer when released into the air. In 1990, Congress passed the Clean Air Act and decided Freon will be phased out. Since then, a new refrigerant named Puron, or R-410A, emerged as the safe alternative to replace Freon. By 2020, the EPA will stop all production of Freon, and costs have already started to increase. Learn how you can benefit by choosing a system using the new refrigerant R-410A.

Why an R-410A AC Installation?

Because older Freon-based units are being phased out, it’s important to prepare for the future. Those who aren’t aware of the government action against Freon will merely decide on installing a cheaper system. However, prices on Freon-based systems will drop only because demand will decrease. The reason to install a Puron-based system is that you can expect it to last longer and run more efficient. By investing a bit more now, you won’t be caught by unexpected repairs and maintenance later on. After 2020, HVAC companies won’t be able to replace Freon.

Benefits of Choosing the New Refrigerant

The first benefit of switching to a system using Puron is that it won’t deplete the ozone layer. That was the reason the EPA began phasing it out. However, the new refrigerant is more efficient, and you can expect a lower energy bill by choosing it. Likewise, the phase out of R-22 Freon will increase the price of repairing older systems. You won’t have to worry that the law of supply and demand will skyrocket your AC repair bill down the road.

If You’ve Recently Installed a New Unit Using Freon:

If you’ve recently purchased one of the remaining units using Freon (R-22), then you may be wondering what you can do to help the environment and keep your costs low. While some units could be retrofitted to use the new chemical, that’s not practical for many systems because Puron operates at a higher pressure. The best thing you can do it properly maintain your AC unit. Consider an annual preventative maintenance agreement to keep your AC running in top shape. Well-maintained systems won’t leak Freon, and technicians handle the substance with special containers and procedures. Also, you’ll avoid the increasing cost of Freon because maintained units should not leak.

McWilliams Heating, Cooling and Plumbing In Lufkin, TX

If you’d like to inquire about installing a new system using R-410A, Puron, then give us a call. McWilliams Heating, Cooling and Plumbing proudly serve Lufkin, TX. call us today.