If you’re a home or business owner with an air conditioning unit over 12 years old, now might be the time to invest in a new AC system. The reason? Canadian refrigerant regulations are making it much more expensive to repair and maintain older models. Here are the new rules and why you should consider an AC upgrade.
From R22 to R410A
At issue is the type of refrigerant stored in the copper tubing of an air conditioning unit. The refrigerant cools your home by absorbing heat from inside your home and transferring it outside. Historically, air conditioner manufacturers have used R22 refrigerant, also known by the brand name Freon.
Freon, a hydrofluorocarbon, is a greenhouse gas detrimental to the earth’s ozone layer, so governments worldwide have been phasing out R22 refrigerants. Twelve years ago, Canada and the U.S.A. banned R22 for air conditioner manufacturing.
R22 has been replaced by R410A, also known as Puron. While Puron is still a greenhouse gas, it doesn’t damage the ozone layer as Freon does. If you have an air conditioner less than 12 years old, it most certainly contains R410A.
Why the cost of maintaining an old unit is going up
In January 2020, R22 became illegal in Canada and the U.S., meaning it can’t be manufactured or imported. You can still own an air conditioner with R22, but refrigerant refills will become increasingly problematic and expensive as supplies disappear. Repairs will also get pricey as manufacturers stop making parts for R22 models.
Unfortunately, you can’t retrofit an older unit to accommodate R410A. The newer refrigerant requires more pressure and a more powerful motor than any R22 model can provide.
Benefits of R410A
Here are some of the benefits of replacing your air conditioner with a modern R410A system:
Lower long-term costs. The price you pay upfront for a new R410A unit will more than pay for itself in reduced maintenance and repair costs over its lifespan.
Lower energy bills. R410A can absorb and release heat better than R22, making it more energy-efficient. You can cool your home more quickly, thereby lowering your energy bills.
Peace of mind. Feel better knowing your new unit isn’t contributing to the depletion of the ozone layer.
Air conditioning replacement in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge and Surroundings
The technicians at Aire One Heating & Cooling have the tools, training and inventory to replace your old air conditioner. You can also choose our affordable air conditioning rental service if a new system isn’t in your budget. Contact us today in Cambridge, Woodstock and Waterloo to get an estimate on an air conditioner replacement.