Air Conditioning regulation is in the process of making changes that you need to know about. Be aware of the updates you are going to have to make in the next few years and make the most cost effective decisions by understanding the changes and how they will effect you, your family, and your current air conditioning systems with help from Top Notch Heating and Cooling of Pittsburgh.
The Freon Phase Out:
In 2010, air conditioning manufacturers discontinued the production of equipment that utilize R-22 Refrigerant, also known as Freon.
Prior to 2010, Freon based Air Conditioning Systems were the popular AC Unit, used for decades in residential homes and for commercial businesses. However, in recent years we have learned that Freon is a fluorocarbon pollutant that removes the ozone layer, which as you know, acts as a protective layer against harmful ultraviolent rays from the sun. If you currently use equipment that recharges with Freon, you can continue to recharge your equipment up until 2020. Meaning that you will absolutely need to get new equipment that does not rely on Freon after January 1st, 2020, as it will not be available thereafter. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has ruled to completely stop production of HCFC-22 by the year 2020.
So Why Upgrade before you absolutely have to in 2020?
- As Freon becomes more difficult to obtain, it will also become more expensive. In 2014, 51 million pounds of Freon were produced for consumption. In 2015, that numbered dropped to 22 million. By 2020, that number will drop to zero.
- You are hurting the ozone layer and quality of life for all of its inhabitants by using a fluorocarbon pollutant that has been classified as harmful to the environment.
- There is an alternate cooling unit, R-410A (brand name Puron), which is just as efficient as Freon at cooling and does not harm the environment like Freon. New air conditioning systems use Puron, which is currently about half the cost of Freon, which will become increasingly more expensive until its deletion in 2020.
See what KDKA has to say about the Freon to Puron Phase Over: ‘Switch To New Refrigerant Likely To Boost Cost For Consumers‘
Top Notch supports the Airtemp and Goodman brands for residential air conditioning systems. All Top Notch installed Air Conditioners utilize refrigerant R-410A, specialty warrantee options, and high performance and quality products that Top Notch stands by and that our customers can rely on. Learn more about Top Notch Cooling Services on our Cooling Page.