R-22, also known as HCFC-22 or difluorochloromethane, is a colorless gas used as a refrigerant and propellant. It is also known as Freon. R-22 is used in central air conditioners, heat pumps, mini splits, automotive air conditioning systems and other refrigeration equipment. It is key to absorbing and removing heat from the space.
the Earth's ozone layer and contribute to climate change. In 2010, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began implementing the Montreal Protocol, banning the production of new equipment using R-22. In 2020, the United States banned the production and import of R-22, and in developing countries, this process will be completed in 2030. Units manufactured in 2009 and earlier still use R-22 today, but the United States stopped selling new air conditioning units using R-22 in 2010.
You can check to see if your air conditioning unit uses R-22 by checking your owner's manual, looking at the unit's nameplate, and calling a professional.
R-410A, also known as Puron or Genetron R410A, is a refrigerant gas used in air conditioning and heat pump systems. It is a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerant and consists of equal parts R-32 and R-125. R-410A is a zeotropic refrigerant mixture, which means its components boil at different temperatures.
R-410A was developed by Honeywell International in the early 1990s as a replacement for the ozone-depleting R-22 refrigerant. It has a lower global warming potential than other refrigerants, making it more environmentally friendly. However, improper disposal of R-410A can have a negative impact on the environment because it can deplete the ozone layer if released into the atmosphere.
The difference between R22 and R410A refrigerants
R22 Features
R-22 is often called Freon, and it's actually one of the top brands. R-22 is no longer used in installing new AC systems because it is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) that was discontinued in 2010. It has been shown to cause ozone depletion. So if you have a new system, you most likely won't be using R22 or Freon; however, you should check what you are using when doing an AC repair on an older system. One thing to note about R-22 is that, in addition to its environmental damage, supply is also limited since it is no longer in production.
R-410A performance
R-410A, commonly known as Puron, is the main brand name associated with this type of refrigerant. It is a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) and does not damage the ozone layer. As a result, it is approved for use in new home air conditioners and is expected to become the standard in the United States in 2015. Most new air conditioning units automatically use R-410A, but you should still check before final purchase. If you have a relatively new device from before 2010, you should check to see if it uses R-22 or R-410A.
Performance differences
R-410A is not only better for the ozone layer; it also provides better overall operation. It absorbs and releases heat better than R-22, allowing your compressor to run cooler so it doesn't overheat. In addition, it can operate at higher pressures, so the compressor in the equipment can withstand greater stress and will not break easily. Systems using R-410A also use synthetic oil for lubrication, rather than mineral oil like R-22 systems. Synthetic oils are more soluble, making the entire system more efficient. Therefore, R-410A works better than R-22 and has a more efficient system.
dry charge
As R-22 became illegal for use in new installations, some companies found ways to continue using R-22 in new systems by producing dry-charge units. These units do not have refrigerant installed at the factory. A technician must come to your home to charge your device. Although it is legal so far, there are times when it is not the best option for your home. For one, R-22 supplies are dwindling, which will lead to higher prices in the future and make it more difficult to find the refrigerant. Plus, R-410A is more environmentally friendly and more efficient equipment, saving you money. Dry-loaded units do not have a long warranty.
When it comes to choosing between Freon and Proton, it's not a very difficult decision. The HVAC industry and regulations have more or less made the decision for you. R-410A is the better of the two, both for efficient systems and for environmental help. When you purchase a new system, make sure you purchase one with R-410A and not a dry-charge system.
