The R-22 Refrigerant Phase-Out Is Here: Don’t Let Your AC Leave You in the Heat
If your air conditioning system is more than a decade old, you’re likely sitting on a ticking time bomb that could leave you sweltering in the desert heat. The EPA banned the production and import of R-22 refrigerant on January 1, 2020, and R-22 is no longer produced or imported into the United States. For homeowners in Las Vegas and Clark County, where summer temperatures regularly soar above 110°F, understanding what this means for your cooling system isn’t just important—it’s essential for your comfort and budget.
What Is R-22 and Why Was It Banned?
R-22 refrigerant is one specific type of refrigerant, which is the main chemical your HVAC system uses to cool your home. It’s also known as R-22 Freon™ and HCFC-22 Freon™. Through the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, the U.S. committed to a collaborative, international effort to regulate and phase out ozone-depleting substances. In 2010, the U.S. stopped the sale of newly manufactured residential air conditioning units and heat pumps that use R-22 because of its particularly harmful impact on the ozone layer when released into the air.
The plan’s final stage is scheduled to be implemented on January 1, 2030, at which time the government will officially ban the remaining production and import of all HCFCs, including R-22.
The Current State of R-22 Availability and Costs
The reality for R-22 users has become increasingly harsh. R-22 could only be used in service or repair of older units, and the R-22 refrigerant must be sourced from recycled and stockpiled quantities. If your unit uses R-22 and runs out because of a refrigerant leak, HVAC technicians may still have access to an existing recycled, recovered, or reclaimed supply of this refrigerant.
However, the financial impact is severe. Since there is very little R-22 left in the United States, it gets more expensive every year. Prices can range from $60-$250 per pound. This has driven the price up to $200–$600 per pound, with a full recharge potentially costing $1,500 or more.
What R-22 Users Need to Do Now
If you discover your system uses R-22, don’t panic. If your HVAC system still uses R-22, you don’t need to replace or stop using your system right away. Right now, HVAC systems that use R-22 can still be maintained and serviced by an HVAC professional with the existing supply of this older refrigerant.
However, as the years of the production and import ban go on, the supply of R-22 will continue to dwindle, which will make it harder to get your unit serviced in the future. Here are your immediate action steps:
1. Identify Your Refrigerant Type
The refrigerant type your HVAC system uses should be listed in your owner’s manual. If you can’t find your manual, try contacting the company that sold or services your HVAC system to find out the type of refrigerant your unit uses. It may also be listed on the product tag on the outdoor unit.
2. Consider Your Replacement Options
When it comes to replacing R-22, you have several paths forward:
- Drop-in Refrigerants: MO99 (Freon™ MO99) is the best alternative to R-22 for homeowners who want to keep their current AC. It costs 30–40% less than R-22 and doesn’t require expensive system modifications. Unlike other replacements, MO99 can be added without changing the compressor, refrigerant lines, or oil type.
- System Replacement: If you need to replace your unit altogether, you won’t be able to obtain another R-22-using system. Instead, your new unit will use a more sustainable replacement refrigerant, such as R-454B.
3. Plan for Future Regulations
The refrigerant changes don’t stop with R-22. As of January 1, 2025, new rules under the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act have further transformed the HVAC industry: R410A, the common replacement for R-22, is now also being phased out for new systems due to its high Global Warming Potential (GWP). All new residential HVAC systems must use refrigerants with a GWP below 750. The most common replacements are R454B and R32, both of which are more environmentally friendly and energy efficient.
Why Professional Service Matters
EPA regulations stipulate that only a trained HVAC technician should handle HVAC refrigerants. If your older air conditioner or heat pump is low on R-22, an HVAC professional should be the one to recharge it. This isn’t just about regulations—it’s about safety and proper system performance.
For Las Vegas residents, working with a local, experienced HVAC company is crucial. Passionate Cooling & Heating, located at 6672 Boulder Highway Suite 2 in Las Vegas, understands the unique challenges of desert climate cooling. The family-owned and operated company has over 12 years of experience in the HVAC Industry and goes above and beyond customer expectations.
Whether you need routine maintenance to keep your R-22 system running or you’re ready to upgrade to a modern, efficient system, professional air conditioning service winchester ensures your system operates safely and efficiently. With 18 years of experience, they’ve built a reputation for professionalism, integrity, and a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction. They understand how essential a dependable heating and cooling system is for your home’s safety and comfort. That’s why they go above and beyond to deliver customized solutions and ensure every project is done right the first time.
Making the Smart Financial Decision
Plan ahead: If your system is over 10 years old or uses R22, consider replacing it soon to avoid rising repair costs and regulatory headaches. Consult the pros: Only EPA-certified technicians should handle refrigerant removal, system upgrades, or new installations.
The math is becoming increasingly clear: As supplies of R22 refrigerant become scarce, the cost of this refrigerant is expected to rise significantly. This scarcity and the subsequent price increase make it crucial for homeowners and business owners to plan for the future of their HVAC systems. Operating an HVAC system that uses R22 refrigerant after the phase-out can become increasingly costly and unsustainable.
Many U.S. homeowners qualify for energy efficiency rebates or tax credits when replacing old R22 units with new Energy Star-qualified systems. State, local, and utility programs may offer incentives worth several hundred dollars or more on qualifying upgrades. These programs encourage the transition to climate-friendly technologies while helping offset upfront costs for homeowners.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
The R-22 phase-out isn’t a distant concern—it’s happening now, and the impacts are already being felt by homeowners across the country. The EPA is encouraging people who use HVAC systems with R-22 to replace them with a more sustainable and eco-friendly option when their unit needs to be replaced.
For Las Vegas homeowners, where air conditioning isn’t a luxury but a necessity, taking proactive steps now can save you from emergency breakdowns during the hottest months of the year. Modern alternatives offer better efficiency, lower costs, and greatly reduced environmental impact. Consulting with a licensed HVAC technician is the best way to ensure compliance, safety, and comfort as you plan your next steps.
Don’t let the R-22 phase-out catch you unprepared. Contact a qualified HVAC professional today to assess your system, understand your options, and develop a plan that keeps you cool while protecting your budget and the environment.