The High Cost of Recycled Freon
It’s been a long time coming. In fact, the world’s leading nations agreed to ban ozone depleting substances like R-22 refrigerant – you know it better as Freon – in 1987.
The occasion was the Montreal Protocol, and here’s how it directly impacts you:
- R-22 was banned from use in the manufacturing of residential and commercial AC systems as of January 1, 2010.
- The R-22 refrigerant was still available for system refills through the end of 2019.
- Now, new quantities of Freon may no longer be manufactured or sold.
- All that’s left are recycled quantities of R-22, and in limited amounts.
How does all this effect you? Let’s look:
What A Freon Recharge Might Cost You
Let’s start by putting things in perspective. Your central air system was built to last an average of 12 – 15 years. That’s not a bad run as mechanical objects go. Just keep in mind that every year, AC systems run a little less efficiently and thus cost more to operate.
So, does that mean you should replace your system now if it was built before 2010 and contains Freon? Possibly, and here’s why. A system recharge of Freon once cost $5 – $10 a pound. Today – if you’re lucky enough to obtain an adequate supply – you’re likely to pay $200 – $300 per pound.
And now for the “fun” part. Given that AC systems require 6 – 14 pounds of refrigerant to operate effectively, a full recharge could cost as much as $4,200.
You know what you can buy for that amount of money? All or most of a brand new AC system that operates on R-22’s replacement: R-410A, a more environmentally friendly, non-ozone depleting chemical. You might know R-410A as Puron.
Is it Time to Replace Your AC System?
We can’t answer that for you, but we can present your primary options.
- Get as much as you can from your existing AC system and replace it only when you have no other choice. Just keep in mind that costly repairs can happen along the way while your electricity bill keeps climbing.
- Wait until if or when your system needs more Freon (remember, all that’s left are recycled products) and then decide either to have it done or, depending on the cost, replace your system at that time.
- Or, put an end to the “wait and see” game and replace your system now.
Advantages of Buying New
You have everything to gain by replacing your AC system now, including:
- Worry-free operation
- Greatly reduced utility costs which – enough savings, in fact, to eventually cover the cost of your new system
- Cleaner indoor air
- Reduced indoor humidity
- You’ll be contributing to a cleaner environment
Contact Correct Temp today to schedule a free in-home comfort analysis and new system proposal. And put the years of Freon behind you.
