What You Need To Know About R22 Refrigerant Phase Out

Air conditioning is now used in almost all commercial properties, ranging from cafes and small shops to large public spaces and office buildings. In order to meet the diverse needs of various types of commercial units, specialists have designed several types of air conditioning systems. There are almost an infinite number of configurations, but the main types of commercial air conditioning systems used in 2017 are Single Zone & Multiple Zone, Constant Volume & Variable, Radiant & Forced Air and Ducted & Ductless HVAC Systems.

Single Zone or Multiple Zone HVAC Systems?

The main difference between a single zone and a multi zone AC system is that the former is excellent for providing air conditioning for just one under-served area, while the latter is the ideal choice for a whole building. If you have a small shop or you already have an HVAC system in place and you want to add a new area in your building or shop, then a single zone HVAC should be your choice.

Conversely, if you have a large office building or a larger shop with multiple rooms, then you should probably go with a multiple zone device that allows you to control the temperature independently in each room/area.

Constant Volume vs Variable Volume HVAC Systems?

Another 2 types of commercial air conditioning systems are constant and variable volume. While in the case of a constant volume HVAC system the air has a constant speed all the time, with the flow staying the same, for variable volume systems the volume of the air is changed periodically based on your preferences and on the pressure sensors.

The variable volume HVAC systems come with the advantage of precise temperature control, lower energy consumption, reduced compressor wear & tear and increased passive dehumidification.

Radiant & Forced Air HVAC Systems?

When choosing between radiant or forced air HVAC Systems, you need to know that radiant systems are more energy efficient, reduce the lifecycle costs and offer enhanced thermal comfort. On the other hand, forced or all-air HVAC systems offer quicker heating or cooling, with an improved indoor air quality and better air flow. For example, in heavy polluted cities such as Beijing, forced air HVAC systems are a necessity.

Based on the benefits of these two types of HVAC systems, the final decision is yours.

For many years, homeowners have used R22 refrigerant in air conditioners. The problem with the old R22 refrigerant that is used in air conditioners is that they are neither environmentally friendly nor efficient. This has necessitated the shift to favorable refrigerants that are more efficient and leads to less emission of greenhouse gas. R22 is a gas that is used in systems like refrigeration systems and air conditioners. However, it was included in the list of substances that destroy the ozone layer. As a result, R22 refrigerant phase out was instituted for those who use older air conditioners. The US government put in place a policy that new air conditioners should not use the R22 gas, because of the environmental concerns associated with this gas. The R22 refrigerant phase out provides a timeframe for users to switch to refrigerants that are ozone friendly and energy efficient.

Clean Air Act

This act aims at protecting the ozone layer from damage caused by ozone depleting gases like R22. To avoid incurring fines, homeowners are supposed to check their R22 refrigerants for leak including equipment that are labeled with R22 gas. If your current air conditioner is R22 compatible, you can have it serviced and if deemed necessary, it can be recharged to 1/1/2020. While servicing your system, it is important you choose technicians that are reliable and have EPA certification required to do the work. Come 2020, manufacturers will stop producing R22 refrigerants. The EPA has not imposed any requirement regarding the action that needs to be taken towards the R22 Refrigerant Phase Out. That means air conditioners that are R22 compatible can still be used after 2020.

All air conditioners purchased after the 2010 deadline are using R410A refrigerant, which is more ozone friendly. This is because the government imposed laws in 2010 to stop the manufacturing of R22 air conditioners. This was after it was discovered the R22 refrigerant emit gases, which can damage the ozone layer. The positive news for people using R22 systems is that they can still continue to service these systems because the EPA has not enacted a policy requiring a change. To reduce servicing costs in future, it is important you properly maintain your air conditioner. This will not only reduce the maintenance cost, but also minimize adverse damages to the environment.

Is It Time To Replace Your R22 Air Conditioner?

It is necessary that homeowners embrace R22 refrigerant phase out today, since it will only get more expensive in the future. Homeowners who have adopted the modern R410A refrigerants are reaping the benefits of more durable systems. Unlike R22 air conditioners which are not efficient in releasing and absorbing heat, R410A air conditioners can release and absorb heat better. Hence R410A systems are not only energy efficient, but also contribute less to ozone depletion. It is important to note that R410A refrigerants use different parts compared to R22 refrigerants. Therefore, you cannot replenish R22 air conditioners with R410A refrigerants. It might be ideal to replace your R22 air conditioner when it is nearing the end of its lifespan rather than waiting later to service the refrigerant leak.

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