Did you know that R22 is being phased out for a new environmentally friendly refrigerant? Read this letter from our President......

Dear Valued customers,

 

Once again the federal government has mandated change in the air conditioning and heat pump systems we use.  As of January, 2010, manufacturers of air conditioning and heat pump systems shall no longer be able to produce equipment that utilizes the refrigerant R-22.

 

Because of this change and since R-22 is scheduled to be completely phased out of production by the year 2020, manufacturers have been focusing research and development on cooling systems utilizing the “environmentally friendly” alternative refrigerants, such as R-410a, for many years. As a result the manufacturers are ready to meet demand with the newer equipment. However, these changes will mean more complex decisions for the consumer when choosing to repair or replace existing systems.

 

Single component replacement is generally not a viable option when moving to a system that utilizes R-410a. Rather “matched system” replacement has been the rule. At the very least, modification of the indoor coil of the system has been necessary when upgrading an existing R-22 installation.

 

Because “matched system” replacement costs are much higher than single component replacements, the economies of repair vs. replacement will be an important factor when deciding how best to bring an air conditioning or heat pump system back on line.

 

Another factor related to the new equipment is the increased service cost. This equipment, which meets the higher efficiency standards that went into effect in 2006, requires better and more frequent service, from filter changes to maintenance of the coils. In addition, many of these systems employ variable speed motors, which are much more expensive to replace.

 

There are “drop-in” replacements for R-22 on the market. However, it is not universally clear that the R-22 replacements will provide the same cooling capacity as R-22. Care must be exercised to insure a system that has been retrofitted with the replacement refrigerant will provide the necessary amount of cooling that a space demands.

 

How should the consumer respond to the anticipated changes in the residential cooling market?

 

First, if whole system replacement is the desired option, a system utilizing R-410a should be installed now, rather than a similar system utilizing the old refrigerant R-22.

 

Second, in all cases, budgets should be revised to account for the anticipated increased costs related to the installation, replacement, maintenance and service of the higher efficiency equipment.

 

Third, consumers should carefully consult with their contractor when examining any proposal for the replacement of an existing air conditioning or heat pump system to determine the compatibility of all the components of the proposed system. Improperly matched systems will not work properly, and lead to premature component failures.

 

Fourth, consumers should plan to have any new heating and cooling system maintained on  a regularly scheduled basis to insure that the new equipment operates properly and efficiently, and the equipment’s  longevity is preserved.

 

Finally, the consumer should shop for a contractor that has experience solving “system problems” (i.e. humidity, mold and duct issues), rather than simply “replacing  boxes”. Installing the newer equipment with existing duct systems can expose a host of system problems, even exacerbating some (i.e. humidity issues). An educated contractor will help the consumer choose not only the right equipment, but insure that the whole system, including the connecting ductwork and accessories deliver the comfort the customer desires.

                                                                                               

                                                                                     Regards,

 

                                                                                    N. Christopher Perry

                                                                                    President