R22 vs. R-410A: Understanding the Key Differences in AC Refrigerants

Buying an air conditioning unit for your house or office is a very big investment. These systems do not come cheap and that is why you need to be extra careful when making your decision. There are so many things you need to consider when buying an AC like its model, variant, features, energy efficiency, etc.

However, there is one thing that matters in an AC the most, and that is the type of refrigerant it uses. Most AC systems use R22 and R-410A refrigerants these days and in this article, we are going to take a look at these in detail so stay with us.

Here is all you need to know about R22 and R-410A refrigerants

What is  R22 Refrigerant?

R22 ruled the refrigerant industry for many years and is still in use in some older models of ACs. R22 or otherwise known as the Freon refrigerant was discontinued in 2010 since there was considerable evidence of it destroying the ozone layer.

R22 contains hydrochlorofluorocarbons that are very damaging to our environment. Another reason for the decreasing popularity of this refrigerant is that its supplies are very limited. This leads to higher costs while giving very little efficiency in return.

Most new AC units do not use this refrigerant. However, if you have an older unit that needs refrigerant refill, you will need to arrange for R22.

What is R-410A Refrigerant?

R-410A is the latest improvement in refrigerant technology and its popularity is increasing by the day. This refrigerant is sometimes also referred to as Puron. This particular refrigerant contains HFC or hydrofluorocarbons which are less harmful to our atmosphere. This refrigerant is approved by most developed nations for residential as well as commercial air conditioning units.

Most modern AC units use R-410A since it gives better cooling in less time and with very few risks of damage to the ozone layer. Its success is so much so that it is expected that in a few years, this refrigerant will become the new standard for residential air conditioning units in the US.          

R22 vs. R-410A: Performance Differences

The main difference between these refrigerant types is in their ability to absorb and release heat. R22 can absorb and release less heat which can lead to compressor burnout over time. On the other hand, R-410A can handle more heat allowing the compressor to run cooler.

The compressors used in new AC units are built to withstand greater pressure that is caused by R-410A refrigerant. Using this refrigerant in an AC that is designed for R22 can put too much pressure on the systems and that can lead to premature wear and tear.

Every AC comes with a certain oil whose job is to keep the compressor lubricated during the operation. The R410A-based AC units use synthetic oil which is more soluble with this refrigerant. On the other hand, R22 systems use mineral oil whose solubility with this refrigerant is slightly less.          

Reasons Behind R22 Phase Out

Due to the harmful impacts of R22 on our ozone layer and overall ecosystem, the US Environmental Agency decided to phase out this refrigerant. In 2010, the US government put a ban on manufacturing AC units that used this refrigerant. As of 2022, the laws regarding the manufacture and import of this refrigerant became more strict.

As the sanctions on this refrigerant grew, its supply also decreased and people who owned the AC units based on this refrigerant were not able to find it easily and at an affordable price.  

 All these factors led to the phasing out of this refrigerant and the AC units that were designed to use it.

Dry Charging

There are some companies that have found a loophole to still use R22 without breaking any laws. They have developed what are known as “Dry Charging Units”. In such units, the manufacturers do not preinstall any refrigerant. Instead, you have to call a technician to do this.

Though dry charging is a viable option, it is not completely ethical. The refrigerant R22 is bad for the planet and there is sufficient evidence to prove the fact. Moreover, due to limited supply, this refrigerant is quite expensive. The warranty period for the dry changing units is very short and that is why it is suggested that you go for R-410A-based AC units for your future use.     

What Makes R-410A Superior?

Here is why we believe you should prefer AC units that use R-410A refrigerant

Reduced Costs

After the phase-out, the supply of R22 has decreased. The refrigerant costs a lot and the people who make repairs also charge you more. With R-410A this is not an issue. You can enjoy superior cooling with reduced costs if you go with this new refrigerant.

Less Harmful for the Ozone Layer

R-410A has a very low global warming potential. Its constituent elements are least damaging to the environment since they do not deplete the ozone layer to a very great degree.

Better Efficiency

This refrigerant can absorb and release more heat quickly. This refrigerant is more fluent in temperature changing abilities which makes it the most energy efficient option.

Improved Performance

R-410A refrigerant functions at a higher pressure. It also has a much easier time absorbing and letting go of heat which means there are very few chances of the compressor burnout. Thus, this refrigerant gives you a much better performance while ensuring greater energy efficiency.

Conclusion

As the world moves towards more environmentally friendly heating and cooling systems, more and more manufacturers are making AC systems that rely on R-410A refrigerants. The improvements in efficiency and low ozone depletion risks exhibited by this refrigerant are proof that transitioning to this new refrigerant technology is a wise decision.

So, when looking for an AC for your house or office, take into consideration both FR22 (Freon) and R-410A (Puron) refrigerants and their positive and negative aspects. This will help you make the best decision and ensure you enjoy the best indoor air conditioning experience.   

Visit YorkMEA to explore our wide array of R22 and R410A refrigerant-based AC technologies.