What Does an R22 System Retrofit Mean?

Retrofitting is the process of modifying the R22 air conditioning system so it is compatible with the newer refrigerant.

It’s a general consideration among clients in commercial and industrial settings rather than clients in residential. This is due to the size of the equipment, which would normally reflect in pricing. However, in most residential cases, customers rather replacing their old system with a new unit. But on the other hand, having your air conditioner retrofitted, especially with the R22 refrigerant situation today, is the least expensive option for units that are still in working condition. In addition, retrofitting a system may require less work than replacing the entire air conditioner system outright.

When was R22 refrigerant banned?

As of January 1, 2020, a law was passed to ban all HCFC refrigerants and gasses.

These types of gasses are a major contributing factor in the depletion of the ozone layer, which affects everything here on the earth. In addition, if we should continue down this part, all life will be at risk, whether it’s by skin cancer, drought or flooding.

Can I Just Add The New Refrigerant To My Old System?

The answer to the above question is NO.

While some homeowners think mixing refrigerants is ok, the simple answer is that you just can’t do so. Air conditioners were designed to only accept one type of refrigerant, so mixing it will result in the malfunctioning of the unit. Another problem is the refrigerant oil compatibility to return it to the compressor. The R22 systems use mineral oil, while the newer refrigerant systems use Polyester Oil (POE). Therefore by using the wrong refrigerant with the wrong oil, you will most likely end up with a compressor failure. In other words, the compressor relies on the refrigerant to return whatever oil leaves the compressor into the system.

NOTE:

• Mixing refrigerants on purpose is against the law.
• Refrigerants that are mixed cannot be properly recycled.
• R22 refrigerant must be recovered from the air conditioner’s system and not released in the open air.
• Knowingly releasing R22 into the atmosphere is a chargeable offence and an individual can face jail time.

With this in mind, customers should not just have anyone performing a retrofit to their system. This should be done by a trained professional. Here at Knowledge HVAC & Refrigeration our HVAC contractor are here to help you the customer. Contact us today and we will have one of our pros taking care of your needs.