View the PDF version of the R-22 Phase Out Timeline.
It may come as a surprise that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) actually has been implementing the R-22 (Freon) phase out over decades, dating back to the late 1980s. The phaseout began as part of the solution to protect the ozone layer by banning HCFC refrigerants that are not environmentally friendly.
Initially, the EPA’s efforts were to restrict supply and limit the availability of R-22. They did so by incrementally banning production, import, sale, and use of R-22 with exceptions for serving existing refrigeration and air conditioning equipment.
This drop in R-22 supply sparked a very gradual rise in R-22 prices that has only increased up until the present day. Now, with the 2020 deadline in sight for the R-22 phaseout, the refrigerant’s availability is decreasing much more rapidly and causing prices to skyrocket. Each time supply drops, R-22 prices and equipment repair prices will continue to rise.
As of January 2020, R-22 will not be legally available for sale at any price. No new or imported R-22 will be allowed in the United States. Old equipment using the Freon refrigerant will not be repairable, and will need to be replaced the next time it breaks down instead.
Right now is a good time to start considering what the R-22 phase out timeline means to you. What home energy equipment do you have that uses R-22 (Freon)? What might need to be replaced, what are your alternatives, and when should you act?
BelRed can help you understand the urgency of the R-22 phaseout timeline, and discuss your options for replacing R-22 air conditioning and refrigeration equipment. We’re here to help protect your wallet and maximize your home energy efficiency.
Contact us today to learn more about R-22 and what it means for you.
