Why You Should Replace Your R22 Air Conditioner
If your air conditioner is more than eight years old, chances are it uses a type of coolant called R22 (also known as freon). These older models need regular care and maintenance, and still usually only last between 10-20 years (depending on environmental conditions and how well they are cared for).
If you are thinking of servicing your old AC before it heats up again this summer, take a moment to consider whether it makes sense to repair an older unit or replace it instead. Below are a few reasons why an AC upgrade might be the better option.
Tax Incentives
If you purchase and install an AC unit that is Energy Star Approved, you can apply for some pretty hefty tax credits. As long as the AC unit is being installed in your primary residence, you qualify for a credit of up to 10% of the total cost. The maximum amount you can receive is $500, but this can still help defray your total costs substantially.
Please note that this particular credit expires December 31, 2021, and it is not yet known what new tax credit system may be put in place after that. Energy Star’s website is the most reliable source for current federal tax incentive information.
Lower Energy Bills
If you own an R22 air conditioner, installing an Energy Star approved device will mean lower energy bills. To figure out how much you could save with a new, energy-efficient system, check out this Energy Saving Calculator. Even paying just $10 less a month can add up quickly.
Environmental Impact
According to the EPA, R22 refrigerant endangers the environment by releasing Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) into the atmosphere. HCFCs contribute to ozone depletion, and can also accelerate climate change. The EPA plans to ban the production and importation of all HCFCs by 2030, and encourages homeowners to invest in cooling systems that use more environmentally friendly products.
R22 Manufacturing and Importation Regulations
Another reason to consider replacing your R22 air conditioner is that the refrigerant it uses will become increasingly hard to get, (and therefore more expensive). Because of the aforementioned environmental impacts, as of January 2020, R22 can no longer be imported to the U.S. or manufactured here.
While R22 coolant hasn’t run out of stock yet, and there is still some sitting in reserves, its stock will eventually become more limited, and, as it does, its price will increase.
If you would like to learn more about installing a new cooling system in your home or business, and are located in the Twin Cities metro area, we here at Quality Systems Heating & Cooling would love to talk you through your options. Contact us today for a free quote, and get ready for your coolest summer yet!
We bring three generations of experience to our HVAC business, and are leaders in the installation of green cooling technologies in Minnesota. Financing options are available, and we promise kind and responsive customer service and expert workmanship.