For decades, most air conditioning units—residential as well as commercial—have relied, in part, on a gas called difluoro monochloromethane to help keep homes cool. This colorless gas, which is (mercifully) also known as HCFC-22, or R-22, has been the gold standard in refrigeration up until now. Throughout the 2020s, however, the United States government will begin a phase-out of parts and services for systems that rely on HCFC-22.

So, with all that in mind, you’re probably wondering, “When should I convert my company’s equipment to an alternative refrigerant in Eugene, OR?” We have the answer.

Why the phase-out?

Recent studies have indicated that HCFC-22 is exceptionally hazardous to the environment. The role that HCFC-22 plays in an air conditioning system sees the gas released into the atmosphere as a byproduct. Unfortunately, HCFC-22 is also a very potent greenhouse gas. It is 1,800 times more destructive than carbon dioxide. As a result, its eventual abandonment was inevitable.

In a world that’s always looking for ways to combat climate change, a slow-moving ban on HCFC-22 is a step in the right direction.

What does this mean for my business?

If you currently have a properly functioning HVAC system that relies on HCFC-22, then the answer to the question of when you should convert your company’s equipment to an alternative refrigerant in Eugene, OR is simple: there’s no rush. That said, there are some conditions you should be aware of:

• Keeping your system maintained is more essential than ever. You should have a plan in place to repair any leaks in your system.
• If you need to expand your system in the future, problems could arise.
• It may become increasingly expensive to service and repair your HVAC system into the future.

No one is going to drop fines or seize your HVAC equipment. A phase-out simply means that the parts and servicing experience relevant to your HCFC-22 equipment will become increasingly rare.

Preventative maintenance is more important than ever

While possession and use of an HCFC-22 system isn’t a legal problem, you can expect officials to become more vigilant about issues that arise with your system. That means it’s absolutely crucial to ensure that your system is running a peak efficiency at all times.

You likely already have an HVAC maintenance routine in place to prevent climbing energy costs, unexpected failures and other unforeseen problems. Now, you’ll need to make sure your HVAC team is looking for issues with your HCFC-22 system.

We’re ready to help you

Still curious about when you should convert your Eugene, OR company’s equipment to an alternative refrigerant? Call American Refrigeration Inc. and let one of our experienced professionals work with you to establish a solution and a timeline that works for your business and your budget.

Whether you choose to continue using your HCFC-22 system or you need a strategy for transitioning to a new system, we can help! We have more than 20 years of experience servicing HVAC units and commercial refrigeration systems of every kind, and we have the track record to prove it.

When you want the best, make it American Refrigeration Inc. We can’t wait to work with you.