My Old Air Conditioner Uses R-22, Will I Be Able to Switch to R-410A?

Until 2010, R-22 was the most frequently used refrigerant in air conditioners and heat pumps. Because R-22 causes ozone depletion, the Environmental Protection Agency required manufacturers to phase out its use. In 2015, R-410A became the standard refrigerant used. If you’re like many Amarillo homeowners, you’re wondering whether you can switch from R-22 to R-410A in your AC system. The answer is yes and no.

You cannot just switch refrigerants because R410-A and R-22 have different chemical properties. R410-A operates at a higher pressure. If you put R410-A into an R-22 system, the parts will rupture due to the increased force.

You can convert your current system to one that runs on R-410A, but the cost will be high. You’ll need to replace the compressor, condenser and evaporator, and probably the refrigerant tubing, with equipment that can handle R410-A. It would be more cost effective to put that money toward a new system designed for R410-A.

Advantages of R-410A

Because R-410A absorbs and releases more heat than R-22, your compressor can operate at a cooler temperature. A cooler temperature reduces overheating and your risk of compressor burnout.

AC units need oil to lubricate the compressor during operation. R-22 units use mineral oil, whereas R410-A units use synthetic oil. The synthetic oil mixes better with R410-A compared to mineral oil and R-22; this “better blend” means the R410-A units run more efficiently and reduce wear and tear on the compressor.

Looking Ahead

Manufacturers stopped producing R-22 in 2020. Although reclaimed or recycled R-22 will remain available until 2030, the cost has risen significantly. If your current system uses R-22 and is less than 10 years old, it’s essential to maintain your system to protect against refrigerant leaks and the high service and repair costs of R-22.

Refrigerant Changes for 2025 and Beyond

On January 1, 2025, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandated a shift to a new refrigerant type for all new air conditioning systems and heat pumps. This regulation requires manufacturers to officially switch from refrigerants like R-410A to A2L refrigerants. Previously, most air conditioning systems relied on hydrofluorocarbons (HFC) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFC) as the refrigerant, like R-410A, but these new guidelines require A2L refrigerants instead. While some manufacturers have already transitioned to A2L systems, existing R-410A equipment can still be sold and installed until the end of 2025. However, the long-term costs of maintaining a system with R-410A will rise sharply as the refrigerant becomes more scarce.

What the New Refrigerant Laws Mean to Homeowners in 2025

The refrigerant changes will impact homeowners, primarily in terms of future HVAC system purchases and potential repair costs for older systems. While existing R-410A systems can still be repaired, the cost of R-410A refrigerant and replacement parts will increase significantly as production is phased down.

If you’re in need of air conditioning service in Amarillo, TX, or the surrounding areas, call us at 806-553-4690.