The R-22 Refrigerant Phase-Out: How It Affects Your Colorado Home

As of January 1, 2020, R-22 refrigerant, commonly known as Freon, has been completely phased out in the U.S., impacting many homeowners with older AC systems in Commerce City, Denver, Boulder, and beyond. Once the industry standard, R-22 is now only available through reclaimed sources, making it an increasingly costly and limited option. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandated this phase-out as part of a larger environmental initiative to protect the ozone layer, so today, only recycled R-22 is available—often at a premium cost.

Why R-22 Is No Longer Available

R-22 is classified as a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC), which releases chlorine into the atmosphere and damages the ozone layer when it leaks. This phase-out is part of the Montreal Protocol, a global agreement designed to eliminate chemicals that harm the ozone. The U.S. gradually reduced R-22 production starting in 2010, with a complete halt on new imports and production in 2020. Homeowners can continue using R-22 in existing systems, but due to the limited supply, any repairs that require this refrigerant are expected to become significantly more expensive.

What This Means for Colorado Homeowners

If your air conditioning system was installed before 2010, it likely runs on R-22. While your current system may still be functional, repairs involving new refrigerant could come with a high price tag. Retrofitting may offer a temporary solution, but it’s not possible for every system, especially older ones that weren’t built to handle modern refrigerants. Many homeowners in Commerce City, Denver, and Boulder are now exploring replacement options as newer systems use eco-friendly refrigerants and offer significant improvements in efficiency and cooling performance.

Conversion Options and Replacement Solutions

Homeowners have two main choices: retrofitting or replacing the AC system. Retrofitting involves converting your current system to use a new, environmentally safer refrigerant. This process often requires replacing several components, such as the compressor and evaporator coil, and cleaning out any remaining R-22 to ensure compatibility with the newer refrigerant. Retrofitting can extend the life of your system temporarily, but older units may still have limitations on efficiency and reliability compared to new models.

For those seeking a long-term solution, replacing the entire AC system with a modern, high-efficiency unit is often the best choice. New air conditioning systems are specifically designed to run on environmentally friendly refrigerants, such as R-410A, and include advanced energy-saving features. This leads to reduced energy costs, enhanced cooling capabilities, and a system that meets current environmental standards. Although the initial investment for a new system may be higher, the savings on maintenance and utility bills can make it a worthwhile choice.

Is Replacement the Best Option?

While retrofitting can be a viable option in some cases, a full replacement is typically more practical in the long run. New systems are built for energy efficiency and reliability, using eco-friendly refrigerants that align with today’s environmental standards. At NOW SERVICES, our AC Repair team is here to help Commerce City, Denver, and Boulder homeowners navigate their options. We provide thorough assessments to help you decide if retrofitting, replacing, or maintaining your existing system is the right choice for your home.

Don’t wait for your system to fail on a hot summer day—contact NOW SERVICES today to schedule a consultation. Our team will help you keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient with a cooling solution that meets both your needs and modern environmental standards.