What is R22 Gas?

What is R22 Gas?

R22 (or HCFC-22) It is a common refrigerant which has been extensively used in small to medium air-conditioning/refrigeration equipment. R22 gas is a Hydrochlorofluorocarbon (“HCFC”), and has been internationally recognized as being an Ozone depleting gas. Because of this classification, Australia has been phasing out the import, export and manufacture of R22 (along with other HCFC’s) for a number of years.

In line with the government’s current guidelines, the importation of R22 is being phased down with a “close to” total phase out by 2020. Under these guidelines, there will still be some very small volumes permitted for existing equipment, with a full phase out by 2030.

So if you have R22 in your air-conditioning equipment - what does this mean?

- To start with, the cost for R22 gas is increasing due to its reducing supply. This means that if your air-conditioner has a leak and requires some R22 – then be aware that this will only increase in cost as the gas becomes more scarce.

- Should your system lose a lot of gas, then we recommend that you not only get a quote to fix/regas your system, but also check out the price of a replacement item. Each situation is a bit different, but you may find that replacing your system with a new more efficient one is the most economical option.

- Retrofitting a system with a different gas type is economically possible - in some cases. So if you are concerned, contact us to fully assess your requirements and we can provide some costings for retrofitting (if possible) or for a change over unit.

- No panic required. Providing your system is running well and you keep it well maintained – then you really don’t have to do anything at this point.

R22 is just another change in an ever changing market of options when it comes to air-conditioning and environmental control. If you have any questions or concerns about R22 and how it could effect you - then contact us for a more detailed review of your requirements.

Alpine Heating and cooling have been operating in excess of 30 years and have provide a range of Air Conditioning and Refrigeration services to the residential, commercial and aged care markets. Contact Alpine today to discuss any of your air conditioning or refrigeration requirements.

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This post was written by Alpine Heating and Cooling