A question for a/c guys

John R. Hall_2

I heard a rumor that people purchasing homes today with a/c systems using R22 refrigerant have to agree to replace these systems with ones using 410A before moving into the home. Has anyone else heard this?

John Mills_4

That's wild

I can't fathom anything like that. Sure haven't heard it before.

Dave Yates (GrandPAH)_15

not required by law

John,

Sounds like a gimmic to me foisted on unsuspecting home buyers. R22 systems are still being sold and installed, although not by my firm. We made the switch to R410a several years ago and have been advising our customers to go with the new refrigerant for several reasons:

Saving a bit with R22 in upfront costs is penny wise and pound foolish based on what we experienced as R12 was phased out. R22 costs will rapidly escallate as the production levels hit mandatory reductions each year until phased out.

The newly installed R22 equipment will outlast the phase out. Repairs will be exponentially more expensive and eclipse any $$$ saved over the initial R410a equipment investment.

Higher efficiency equipment utilizes R410a and many models qualify for the current 30% or $1,500.00 (which ever comes first) tax credit.

Inverter technology is coming to a central system near you - sooner rather than later.

No need to panic, however, if you've got a functioning R22 system. Tax credit incentives are enticing more than a few to seriously consider replacing existing equipment that is in good working condition. Your professional HVAC contractor is the go-to advisor for analyzing your system, projecting savings to be realized if replaced with today's new generation of hi-eff equipment. We include a 20-year ROI projection with our proposals. Side-by-side, the higher eff equipment kicks the rear off of 13-SEER - if the long-term costs of operation are considered.

See you at Comfortech!