The Future of A/C: Moving Beyond R-22

R22 phase-out and how it can affect your A/C

future of home cooling pennsylvaniaIt’s that time of year – people all around eastern Pennsylvania are starting to use their air conditioners to cool off and stay comfortable in their homes during the sweltering summer heat. But if your home’s air conditioning system conks out or runs out of refrigerant, you’ll lose your escape from the heat. That’s where Oehlert Bros. comes in. Read on to learn more about how we can give you peace of mind and help you bring your air conditioning system up to speed.

What’s R22 and why’s it so expensive?

R22, often called “freon,” is a type of refrigerant used in older A/C systems. Unfortunately, like a lot of outdated products from generations past, this type of coolant is actually toxic when leaked or released into the environment. Because R22 is not ozone-friendly and newer technologies have produced better, more eco-safe refrigerant capabilities, R22 is no longer manufactured – and that means it’s hard to find and not economical.

Wait, so is R22 illegal?

The answer is yes, and no. Beginning in 2020, the U.S. government prohibited R-22 by law from being produced or imported. After 2020, only recovered, recycled, or reclaimed supplies of R-22 are available, and those are slated to be phased out in the coming years as well. While you’re not going to get hauled off to the slammer for having a decades-old cooling system, this is one reason why it’s wise to consider upgrading your older model A/C system is you are still relying on R22.

How do you know when you’re ready to breakup with R22?

When an older system requires repairs using R22, this outdated style coolant is hard to find. Oehlert Bros. provides repairs completed with “recaptured” R22 – as permitted by law – but it is becoming more and more scarce. In fact, the cost is about three times as much as the new refrigerant! If your A/C system is older and not working well, we encourage you to consider upgrading to new equipment instead of continuing with repairs which could be very costly and will only increase over time.

Join the Oehlert Brothers Family!

A lot of things can go wrong when you’re still using R22 in your A/C system. Help prevent them by working with Oehlert Bros. for repairs and replacement to your outdated A/C. Oehlert Bros. is a family-owned company based right here in Royersford. When you contact us because you need an air conditioning repairman, you’re not going to get some far-away corporate office or overseas call center. You’re going to reach someone who will treat you with all the respect and courtesy a neighbor can give. And you’ll get prompt, professional service from our air conditioning repairman, whose focus is getting the job done right the first time.

You can trust the professionals at Oehlert Bros. with repairing your home’s air conditioning system. Contact us today to find out more about our air conditioning service plans, enroll in an air conditioning service plan, or join the Oehlert Brothers Family!