R-22 Phase Out

What is the R-22 phase out? After 2010, chemical manufacturers may still produce R-22 to service existing equipment, but not for use in new equipment.

Who will it affect? You as the customer and unfortunately the environment, releases of R-22, such as those from leaks, contribute to ozone depletion. In addition, R-22 is a greenhouse gas and the manufacture of R-22 results in a by-product (HFC-23) that contributes significantly to global warming.

What will happen? As a result, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system manufacturers will only be able to use pre-existing supplies of R-22 to produce new air conditioners and heat pumps. These existing supplies would include R-22 recovered from existing equipment and recycled.

Why is this happening? HCFCs (R-22) are less damaging to the ozone layer than CFC's, but still contain ozone-destroying chlorine. The Montreal Protocol as amended is carried out in the U.S. through Title VI of the Clean Air Act, which is implemented by EPA.