The New Year is almost upon us and we understand that there are many more exciting things to think about than the coolant in your AC. However, the EPA’s ban on Freon appears bent on spoiling your party. Although the ban has been preceded by a gradual phase-out, it is expected to take full effect on 1st January 2020. But who should be worried about the new Freon change and who shouldn’t?
When Was Your AC Unit Manufactured?
Before 1996, Freon or R-22 was the only coolant manufactured and sold in the United States. If your AC unit was purchased before then, you need to invite HVAC-certified professionals to help assess your options.
If your AC unit was purchased between 1996 and 2010, your coolant would be either R-22 or the environmentally friendly R410A. If you bought your AC after 2010, however, there is a high chance it runs on R-410A or Puron.
How to Check If Your AC Is Using Freon
If you want to be certain about the kind of refrigerant your AC is using, you have the following options?
- Check the owner’s manual
- Search for the model number on the manufacturer’s website
- Call a local AC repair outlet and give them relevant info about your unit
What to Do If Your AC Uses Freon
If your AC unit is using Freon, you’d need to retrofit or replace the unit. The coils of older air conditioners are usually compatible with R-410A refrigerant. You can invite our expert AC repair technicians at Waychoff’s Air Conditioning to help you with the retrofitting.
If the unit is incompatible with the R-410A refrigerant, you would need to change the compressors and some other parts of your AC before retrofitting. Alternatively, you can consider replacing the whole unit, especially if your AC is already 15 years old or more. Our technicians at Waychoff’s Air Conditioning can help you carry out all the necessary AC repair and installation or AC service operations.