Clearing the Air: The Difference Between R-22 and R-410A Refrigerant

Refrigerant, also known as “freon," is the substance in your air conditioner's copper coils that creates the cool air you feel running through your home. There are several types of refrigerant, but the most common are R-22 and R-410A. It's important to know the difference because one has been labeled outdated and environmentally hazardous, while the other was deemed safer and more efficient to use until recently. We'll give you all the information you need to determine which type of refrigerant your system uses, and what to do if you're still using R-22 or R-410A. 

Types of Refrigerant

R-22:

• This type of air conditioner refrigerant has been used for decades and is very common in many households
• The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has determined that R-22 depletes the Earth's ozone later and mandated that R-22 no longer be produced or imported beyond the year 2020

R-410A:

• R-410A is a type of air conditioner refrigerant that was thought to be safer for the environment, However, it was determined that it contains high levels of hydroflourocarbons (HFCs) that deplete the ozone
• Starting in 2025, R-410A will be phased out, which means that all new HVAC systems will be required to use a different, more sustainable refrigerant

A2L Refrigerants:

• As of July 2022, the EPA now recommends A2L refrigerants as the best replacements for R-22 and R-410A becasue they provide the same cooling abilities without the high greenhouse gas and HFC emissions
• It’s important to note that existing HVAC units cannot accommodate A2L refrigerants without substantial retrofitting. Because of this, A2L refrigerants should only be used in new HVAC systems specifically made for their use.

What to Do if Your AC System Uses R-22 or R-410A

The good news is that you can continue to use your air conditioning system that uses R-22 or R-410A and have it serviced by an HVAC professional. The EPA does not require you to upgrade your equipment to accomodate A2L refrigerants immediately. 

Int he meantime, the most important thing you can do with a system that still uses R-22 of R-410A refrigerant is maintain it properly. The best way to do that is by getting pre-season HVAC tune-ups - so one in the spring before the hot weather hits to ensure your AC is working and another in the fall so your heating system is ready for winter. Pre-season tune-ups are a great way to ensure everything is working as it should, avoid and minimize expensive repairs, and lessen environmental damage. 

Should You Upgrade Your AC System?

Instead of waiting for your older system to break down, there are benefits to upgrading now. If you have a system that uses R-22 and a refrigerant leak occurs, a repair won't be possible because R-22 is no longer available in the United States. If a refrigerant leak with R-410A occurs, it can be repaired, but because production of this type of refrigerant has been significantly phased out, it will be quite expensive. 

It's also important to note that R-22 and R-410A aren't interchangeable with A2L refrigerants, so you can't just start using A2Ls in an older system. Instead, you will need to purchase a new HVAC system specifially made to accomodate A2L refrigerants. 

While getting a new HVAC system is a big investment, the increased efficiency, reliability, and use of EPA -approved refrigerant are worth it in the long run. Many people start to enjoy lower energy bills with a new HVAC system right away. 

American Home Shield is Here to Help

With an American Home Shield home warranty, you have options no matter where you are in your AC system and refrigerant journey. Our home warranty plans protect parts of up to 23 home systems and appliances, including your air conditioning and heating systems. This means that if a covered breakdown occurs, we'll assign a trusted Pro to repair or replace your system per the coverage limits in your plan agreement. 

Our ShieldPlatinum plan also includes member benefits like one, free HVAC tune-up, unlimited AC refrigerant, and up to $5,000 in coverage for air conditioning and heating systems per 12-month plan agreement term. 

And if you're ready to buy a new HVAC, AHS members get access to valuable HVAC system savings with our New HVAC Program. You can leverage our national buying power to save thousands* off national retail pricing from big brands like Bryant, Goodman, Lennox, and Grandaire. Plus, you can enjoy lower energy costs, improved home comfort and air quality, and eco-friendly refrigerant. 

When you have a home warranty with American Home Shield, you can look on the bright side because your covered items are protected. 

*Pricing and amount of savings will vary based on location and equipment availability. Not available in all areas. HVAC upgrades are provided by Frontdoor Pro and performed by a Frontdoor Pro independent service contractor. For Frontdoor Pro license numbers, please visit Frontdoor Pro Licensing Information .

AHS assumes no responsibility, and specifically disclaims all liability, for your use of any and all information contained herein.