Refrigerant R22 (also commonly called Freon) has been used in the production of refrigeration equipment for decades. Over time, scientists have begun to realize the environmental danger of Chlorofluorocarbon (or CFCs) in refrigerants like R22, the Global Warming Potential of which contributes heavily to the depletion of the ozone layer.
January 1, 2020
At the beginning of 2020, the EPA is requiring the production and import of R22 refrigerants come to a complete halt. Long story short, the industry will be transitioning to safer, less environmentally impactful refrigerants. The current replacements for R22 include R407a and R404a; with better alternatives on the way, including R448a. There is a new generation of refrigerants that are being developed which will reduce ozone depletion potential, global warming potential and emission of greenhouse gases from refrigeration equipment.
If your chiller is more than 10 years old, odds are it uses R22, and the reduction in available R22 will result in higher repair costs for your R22 system.
Don’t Panic!
There are plenty of options available to prepare for this upcoming ban. So, there is no need to panic!
1) Keep your unit until it fails
You are not required to stop using your R-22 system, nor to replace your existing equipment. Regular maintenance and coil cleanings should be done to extend the life of your system for as long as possible. During regular cleaning and maintenance, technicians can identify and repair minor issues before they turn into bigger problems. If your system has had frequent repairs or leaks in the past, it’s a good idea to at least start planning and budgeting for a new system.
2) Modify your old R22 unit to use a Complaint Refrigerant
Modifying (or retrofitting) a R22 system to use the existing R407a or upcoming R448a is possible, but not feasible for every unit. The retrofitting process requires a thorough evaluation of your equipment by a trained professional to determine if this option is viable. If a unit can be modified it will require major changes to the entire system. In most cases this means replacing the R-22 compressor and components with those designed for the replacement gas. In some units the evaporator and condenser will need replacing as well. If the evaporator, condenser, and compressor all need replaced, a brand new unit will be more cost effective, and increase the efficiency of the overall system.
3) Replace with a Compliant System
Ultimately, it is up to you to decide if you should continue to invest money into a system that will eventually need to be replaced. Very soon, R22 refrigerant will no longer be available. The good news is that with a bit of research and planning you can chart the best plan of action for your business.
Schedule a Check Up / Call the Experts
No one would wants to be taken by surprise and end up without a chiller at the wrong time! We make the entire process of evaluating and replacing your R22 system hassle free. Call us today at 503-389-8818 and we will complete an assessment of your needs and go over the best options to help you meet your needs.
Need assistance? Need to schedule a consultation? Tanktemp is here to assist you. All our staff members have been trained to safely handle this new regulation. If you don’t want to have to worry about the hassle of your refrigerant being phased-out, or you don’t want to stress about the rising costs of a banned refrigerant, or you just want to help the environment with a non-ozone destroying refrigerant, call Tanktemp today and we’ll come out and provide you with an estimate on a new chiller system at no charge, just in time for harvest and brewing season!
Have questions? Send us an email at ttinfo@tanktemp.com, call 503-389-8818. or click the link below to contact us.
