In 1987, leaders from around the world agreed on a treaty known as the Montreal Protocol, which created a schedule for the phasing out of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which are known to damage the ozone layer. One such chemical is R-22 Freon, which for many years was the refrigerant of choice in air conditioners. The Montreal Protocol established two key target dates in its phasing out of R-22 Freon:

• By Jan.1, 2010, R-22 Freon would no longer be used in newly manufactured air conditioning equipment.
• By Jan. 1, 2020, the manufacture of R-22 Freon would cease.

So what does this mean for the average homeowner?

If you bought a new air conditioner prior to Jan. 1, 2010, it may use R-22 (consult your owner’s manual or contact your air conditioner’s manufacturer). Your unit can be replenished with new R-22 only until New Year’s Day 2020. This means that if your air conditioner breaks down after Jan. 1, 2020, an HVAC pro may only put recycled R-22 in it.

Now is the time to start planning for the phasing out of R-22, as prices of Freon are rising. Begin to budget now for price hikes of the refrigerant, or start shopping for a replacement air conditioner that uses an alternative refrigerant.

For all your air conditioner and other home-comfort needs, contact the friendly experts at Smoky Mountain Heating & Air. Our family-owned business has been a fixture in Asheville since 1922.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about R22 freon and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

Smoky Mountain Heating & Air services Asheville, North Carolina and the surrounding areas. Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!