What are R22 and R-410A and what is the difference between them?
They are refrigerants used in air conditioning equipment. R-410A is the new refrigerant and does not contribute to ozone depletion. R-410A is a more efficient refrigerant which can help to reduce the overall energy use and carbon dioxide emissions. After 2010, R-22 can still be produced for use in servicing existing equipment, but it cannot be used in new equipment. By January 1, 2020, R-22 can no longer be produced. One important thing a homeowner can do for the environment, regardless of the refrigerant used, is to select a reputable dealer that employs service technicians who are EPA-certified to handle refrigerants. Technicians often call this certification “Section 608 certification,” referring to the part of the Clean Air Act that requires minimizing releases of ozone-depleting chemicals from HVAC equipment.
