Do Air Conditioning Units Still Use Freon?

If you’ve owned an air conditioner for more than a decade, you may have heard about something called freon. For years, this refrigerant was the most common substance used in cooling systems across the U.S., including Louisiana. But with changes in environmental laws and HVAC technology, many homeowners still ask: do air conditioning units still use freon today?

The short answer is no new AC units do not use freon anymore. However, many older air conditioning systems still rely on it. Below, we’ll explain what freon is, why it was phased out, what refrigerants replaced it, and what it means for you as a homeowner.

What is Freon?

Freon is a brand name for R-22 refrigerant, once the standard chemical used in air conditioning systems. Its role was to absorb heat from inside your home and release it outdoors, keeping indoor air cool and comfortable.

For decades, nearly every central air conditioning system and heat pump ran on freon. It was reliable, widely available, and familiar to every HVAC technician. But over time, concerns about ozone depletion and its global warming potential led to a government-mandated phase-out.

Why Was Freon Phased Out?

The issue with freon was its harmful effect on the ozone layer. A freon leak or release of refrigerant gas into the atmosphere damaged the ozone, leading to depletion and allowing more UV radiation to reach the Earth.

To address this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Montreal Protocol began phasing out R-22 refrigerant.

• 2010: New air conditioning units that used freon could no longer be manufactured or imported in the U.S.
  
• 2020: The full production and import of freon officially ended.

This phase forced the HVAC industry to adopt alternatives to freon.

Do Air Conditioning Units Still Use Freon Today?

While new air conditioners use eco-friendly refrigerants, many older AC units still run on freon. If your AC unit was made before 2010, chances are it still uses freon.

These systems can still run if properly maintained, but repair and recharge costs are much higher today. Refrigerant leaks are more difficult to fix, and homeowners may find that they need freon replacements from reclaimed supplies, which are costly.

In humid climates like Louisiana, relying on an older AC with freon could be inconvenient and expensive compared to a new air conditioning unit.

What Replaced Freon?

The most common replacement for freon is R-410A, often sold under the brand name Puron. It’s a new refrigerant that does not harm the ozone and is now used as the standard for residential AC systems.

Benefits of R-410A:

• Eco-friendly: Zero impact on the ozone layer.
  
• Efficient: Allows AC units to provide cool air more consistently.
  
• Reliable: HVAC units built for R-410A last longer with fewer repair issues.

Other types of refrigerants, like R-32 and some hydrocarbon refrigerants, are also being tested. But new air conditioning units primarily rely on R-410A.

How to Tell If Your AC Uses Freon

Not sure if your air conditioner uses freon? Here’s how to check:

• Check the nameplate: Your condenser label will state the refrigerant type.
  
• Look at the age: Units built before 2010 likely use R-22 refrigerant.
  
• Watch your bills: If you’re paying high costs for AC repair or a recharge, you may have an older air conditioning unit.
  
• Hire a pro: A certified HVAC technician can inspect coils, refrigerant lines, and confirm if your AC system still relies on freon.

What If Your AC Still Uses Freon?

If your air conditioning unit still runs on freon, you have two main paths:

Short-Term:

• Repair and recharge: A technician can still recharge your AC with recycled freon, though supplies are limited.
  
• Routine cleaning and ac tune-up: Preventing a leak and keeping refrigerant levels steady helps your system last longer.

Long-Term:

• Retrofit: Some older units can be adjusted for a new refrigerant, though not always cost-effective.
  
• Replacement: Installing a new air conditioner with R-410A ensures clean air, better efficiency, and fewer breakdowns.

Why Replacing a Freon-Based AC is Smart

Upgrading your home air conditioning system is often the best choice.

Advantages of a new AC installation:

• Lower bills: Energy-efficient HVAC systems cut costs.
  
• Safer refrigerants: You won’t risk leaking refrigerant harmful to the planet.
  
• Fewer repairs: Modern units need less frequent repair or maintenance.
  
• More comfort: Stronger airflow and better humidity control cool your home more effectively.

How Tegridy Air Can Help

At Tegridy Air, we provide professional AC repair, installation, and cleaning services for residential HVAC customers. Whether your older air conditioning units still use freon or you’re ready for a new air conditioning system, our HVAC technicians offer:

• Inspection: We check for a freon leak, damaged evaporator coil, or worn condenser coil.
  
• Servicing: We can still service freon-based units and handle refrigerant leaks.
  
• Replacement: We recommend new air conditioners use eco-friendly refrigerants used in the industry today.

Conclusion

So, do air conditioning units still use freon? Only older units. New AC units rely on eco-friendly refrigerants like R-410A, which improve efficiency and protect the ozone layer.

If your AC unit could be low on refrigerant or is struggling with warm air, contact Tegridy Air. Our professional AC technicians provide ac repair, installation, and cleaning services to keep your home comfortable year-round.

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