The EPA's R-22 Phase Out & Your AC

R22 aka Freon is a very common refrigerant used in air conditioning units across the United States. Due to its negative environmental impact, the EPA has been phasing out residential use of R22 for over a decade and it is now effectively banned - both from being produced and imported. With many systems still using R22 today, here’s a brief overview of what you need to know: 

What is R22?

R22 (HCFC-22) is a chemical used in both air conditioning units and heat pumps. The liquid refrigerant runs through the system continuously, absorbing and releasing heat in order to provide cool air to the home.

Why did the EPA phase out R22?

When released into the air, R22 contributes to the depletion of the ozone layer. In an effort to protect the ozone layer and slow climate change, the EPA is phasing out production of many ozone-depleting substances.

How do I know if my unit uses R22?

If your air conditioning unit is more than 10 years old, it most likely uses R22. There are a few ways to know for sure: You can check the owner’s manual or look for the data plate located on the outside condensing unit; both will be labeled with HCFC-22 if the unit uses R22. Or, you can give us a call to have one of our technicians or Comfort Specialists come take a look.

What are my options if I have an R22 unit?

Most R22 units are nearing the end of their lifespan so it is only a matter of time before they will need to be replaced. Because R22 is no longer available for purchase, it has become increasingly difficult and costly to repair these units each season.

We strongly encourage homeowners to start budgeting now for their replacement unit.

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Let us help take care of your home!

Please contact us at 860.583.4609 or info@quinoco.com if you’d like to schedule an appointment with one of our Comfort Specialists or Technicians.

Debunking AC Myths - Now's the time to upgrade!

Making a big purchase for your home is not always the easiest decision. And with lots of information available at our fingertips, it’s easy to end up in a research wormhole. With our team of Comfort Specialists and Technicians, we’ve spotted the top AC myths we hear from customers:

I don’t need to swap my r-22 freon unit.

False. The EPA has phased out the use of R22 Freon for residential air conditioning systems. It is no longer available for purchase and it has become increasingly difficult and costly to repair these units as they age. We strongly encourage you to start budgeting for your replacement unit.

If it still works, I don’t need to replace my unit.

Not always true. Even if your unit still works, there are other factors that can impact the need to replace it, in particular the unit’s age, efficiency and maintenance/repair history.

Central air systems are one size fits all.

Maybe your unit was sized for your home and needs when it was first installed but over time occupancy changes and renovations can impact how effectively it works to cool down your home.

air filters only need to be changed once a year.

False. We recommend changing your air filter every 60-90 days with a filter rated MERV 10 or higher. Air filters can easily get clogged reducing your system’s efficiency to keep your home cool. This is especially important if you have pets, children, or family members with allergies or asthma. And changing your air filter is easy! Next time our technician visits your home, be sure to ask how to replace it and what type to keep on hand for your unit. Learn more about air filters in our Indoor Air Quality Guide.

SPECIAL SPRING SAVINGS WITH QUInoco

NOW THROUGH MAY 31st RECEIVE $500 off WHEN YOU
PURCHASE & INSTALL A NEW CENTRAL AC SYSTEM.*

Call us today at 860.583.4609 or visit quinoco.com/ac-savings to schedule an in-home consultation with one of our Comfort Specialists and let us help you stay cool call summer long.**

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*Offer limited to one per household. Does not apply to previously quoted AC units. Offers cannot be redeemed as cash payout. Purchase much be a complete AC system including a condenser, air handler or cooling coil and refrigeration line.

How's your AC running?

Is It Time To Change Your Air Conditioning Equipment?

Replacing your air conditioning unit is no small decision, but our Comfort Specialists and technicians can guide you through the process from start to finish. Here are a few questions to get you started:

Does your air conditioning unit use freon/R-22?

It’s been phased out by the EPA and is much harder and more expensive to acquire.

How old is your unit?

If it’s pushing the ten-year mark, it’s time to start planning for an upgrade before a breakdown or failure during a heatwave.

Has your living situation changed?

From home renovations to additional occupants, your cooling equipment needs to be right sized for your needs to work efficiently.

Don’t wait to schedule an appointment with one of our Comfort Specialists this spring.

Enjoy $500 in savings on the purchase and installation of a new central air conditioning system before May 31st! For more information and to get started, visit Quinoco.com/ac-savings or call us at 860.583.4609.

Home SWEAT Home

Home SWEAT Home

It’s now been a year since the EPA finished phasing out Freon/R-22 as a refrigerant in air conditioning units. While we saw many customers replace their units in 2020, we encourage those who haven’t to be proactive and start taking steps now for replacement.

Remember that Freon is no longer available for purchase so it will become increasingly difficult to repair these units as they age. While some units might have the option to be retrofitted to utilize a different refrigerant, it’s important to evaluate the recurring costs of servicing older units compared to installing a new efficient model that will lower your energy costs.