The Evolution of HVAC Efficiency: From R-22 to Modern Refrigerants

Posted on by VA HVAC

The Evolution of HVAC Efficiency: From R-22 to Modern Refrigerants

Since 1949, Perry Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing has been the leading HVAC and plumbing company for Tucson, AZ and surrounding communities. Throughout our decades of service, we’ve witnessed significant advancements in HVAC technology, particularly in the realm of refrigerants. Today, we’ll explore the transition from R-22 to modern, more environmentally friendly alternatives.

The R-22 Era

For many years, R-22 (also known as Freon) was the industry standard for air conditioning systems. It was efficient and reliable, but it came with a significant drawback: its negative impact on the ozone layer. As environmental concerns grew, the HVAC industry began searching for alternatives.

The Phaseout of R-22

In 2010, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) initiated a phaseout of R-22. This decision led to several changes in the HVAC industry:

  • Manufacturers stopped producing R-22-dependent systems
  • R-22 production and imports were gradually reduced
  • HVAC professionals began transitioning to new refrigerants

Modern Refrigerants

Today, we use a variety of more environmentally friendly refrigerants, including:

1. R-410A

This refrigerant, often sold under the brand name Puron, doesn’t deplete the ozone layer and is more energy-efficient than R-22.

2. R-32

With a lower global warming potential than R-410A, R-32 is becoming increasingly popular in residential systems.

3. R-454B

This newer refrigerant offers excellent performance while having an even lower environmental impact.

At Perry Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing, we’ve embraced these changes, continually updating our expertise to provide the most efficient and environmentally responsible solutions for our customers in Tucson and beyond.

The Impact on Homeowners

The transition to new refrigerants has several implications for homeowners:

  • Improved energy efficiency, potentially leading to lower utility bills
  • Reduced environmental impact
  • The need to replace older R-22 systems as they become obsolete

As we continue to provide unmatched HVAC & plumbing service from our dependable team, we’re committed to helping our customers navigate these changes. Whether you need advice on upgrading your system or maintaining your current one, Perry Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing is here to help, just as we have been since 1949.