Category: Refrigerant

Every year, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implements new rules designed to improve our relationship with the world around us. That means instituting guidelines that keep businesses in line with what’s best for the environment. In 2020, the EPA is zeroed in on the use of hydrochlorofluorocarbons, or HCFC-22 (also known as R-22).

Hydrochlorofluorocarbons fall into a category known as class II ozone-depleting substances. Initially implemented as a substitute material to help ween businesses off of class I ozone-depleting substances, now it’s time for hydrochlorofluorocarbons to be slowly eliminated from society. A question remains, however: how do businesses that rely on refrigeration systems powered by HCFC-22 in Eugene, OR move forward?

Can I use a new HCFC-22 system?

The short answer is no—as part of an international piece of legislation known as the Montreal Protocol, the United States and Canada will be forced to completely eliminate the use of HCFC-22 by 2030. One of the first steps in that transition is to cut off the installation of new, or “virgin,” HCFC-22 systems. As a result, the sale of virgin HCFC-22 was outlawed as of January first.

If not new, go used

Fortunately for those business owners who have an expansive HCFC-22 system, there are some options. For the time being, it’s possible to install a used or reclaimed HCFC-22 system if you’re hoping to expand your refrigeration infrastructure. Anyone who might be thinking of expanding their HCFC-22 system, however, should do so sooner rather than later. On a long enough timeline, parts and equipment for HCFC-22 will become increasingly rare and infinitely more expensive.

Looking at alternatives

There are plenty of options for those people who were planning on expanding or installing an HCFC-22 system. These are refrigerants that adhere to the standards set forth by the Significant New Alternatives Policy, or SNAP. SNAP refrigerants are safe for the ozone (unlike HCFC-22 or R-22 in Eugene, OR) and do just as good a job at keeping your valuable cool. There are numerous SNAP-approved refrigerants—you just need to contact a professional who can help you find the right system for your needs.

American Refrigeration Inc. is your ally

Are you trying to plan your future with a refrigeration system powered by HCFC-22 in Eugene, OR? Before you make any big decisions, place a call to American Refrigeration Inc. Since we opened our doors all the way back in 1995, we have remained committed to providing first-rate service on every job we take on.

We have the extensive experience you need to make sure that your business is making the transition to SNAP-approved refrigerants. In addition, we’re proud to offer a comprehensive array of HVAC, air conditioning and heating services. For the installation, maintenance and repair of any brand of commercial HVAC system, you can count on us.

For the very best service at a price that’s sure to please, come to American Refrigeration Inc. Visit us online or give us a call today to learn more or schedule service.

It’s a new day in the world of refrigeration. As of January 1, 2020, the United States has begun a methodical phase-out of ozone-depleting substances (ODS). While the more toxic class I substances have already been eliminated, now it’s time for the U.S. to begin getting rid of class II ozone-depleting substances, also known as hydrochlorofluorocarbons. That’s where your refrigerator comes in.

Most commercial-sized refrigeration units are powered by hydrochlorofluorocarbons (mercifully abbreviated as HCFC-22 or R-22) in Eugene, OR. As of the first of the year, these substances will no longer be produced or imported to the United States. While the continued use of HCFC-22 isn’t illegal, there will arise occasions where it’s advisable to transition your company’s refrigeration system to an alternative refrigerant.

Expansion

If your business is poised for expansion in the coming years, it might be a good idea to start shopping for alternative refrigerants. Why? Due to the phase-out of R-22 in Eugene, OR, new HCFC-22-based systems cannot be legally installed in a commercial setting. Business owners can purchase repurposed or reclaimed HCFC-22 systems, but those may not offer the same reliability as a virgin system.

Price

You might balk at the thought of installing an entirely new refrigeration system, but making the transition to an alternative refrigerant can actually improve your bottom line. Alternative refrigerants run more efficiently than HCFC-22, which amounts to lower monthly energy payments.

What’s more, the longer that R-22 continues as a phased-out substance, the harder and harder it will be to find replacement parts and repurposed systems. Reduced availability means an increased price to replace.

Effort

As HCFC-22 continues to be phased out, repurposed parts will be harder to find. Perhaps even more important, finding an expert who is capable of repairing and maintaining an HCFC-22-powered refrigeration system will be more difficult.

At what point does your time become a factor in the management of your refrigeration system? Regardless of which industry you’re in, you no doubt expected that you could devote the meat of your workday to doing business, not making sure that your refrigerator is working correctly.

Take the next step with American Refrigeration Inc.

If you’re thinking about replacing your R-22 or HCFC-22 equipment in Eugene, OR, then you don’t need to plan alone. Place a call to American Refrigeration Inc., where we have more than 20 years of experience serving the extended Eugene and Portland areas.

In addition to our refrigeration services, we also specialize in commercial HVAC, air conditioning and heating maintenance and repair. It doesn’t matter what type of environment you’re working in—we have the skill and the knowledge to fix anything from an ultra-cooled laboratory environment to a walk-in wine cellar.

Because we understand that your business relies in part on your HVAC systems working properly, we’re happy to offer efficient, effective emergency service 24 hours a day and seven days a week. When you need the best, you deserve American Refrigeration Inc. Give us a call or visit us online today. We can’t wait to hear from you.