Here’s the Rap Sheet on This Fugitive Refrigerant
Air conditioner giving you a headache lately? Don’t sweat it! Whether you’re facing a minor problem or a major issue, Cornerstone Pros is always nearby when you’re in need of emergency AC repairs in Land O’Lakes, FL, and the surrounding areas.
But now the tables have turned and we’re asking for your assistance. Here’s the report: The Environmental Protection Agency recently listed R-22—the refrigerant that helps cool most older AC systems—at the top of its Most Wanted List. But, locking this dangerous offender away may require your helping hand.
Here’s everything you need to know.
Wanted: R-22! What Is It?
R-22 is the standard refrigerant that’s been used in AC units since 1928. As its background check reveals, this colorless gas also uses aliases, such as HCFC-22.
What Is R-22’s Crime?
There’s no denying R-22’s guilt. In this open and shut case, R-22 is going down for committing:
- Environmental damage: Scientists have found that chlorine, a critical component of R-22, has been deteriorating the ozone layer for close to a century, resulting in monstrous effects on the environment.
- Crime against the person: R-22 puts the public’s health at risk. Consistent exposure to R-22 has dangerous health effects, including skin and eye irritation, coughing, chest pains, water retention in the lungs and cancer. Over time, breathing in chlorine has been shown to affect the immune system, the heart, the blood and the respiratory system in animals and humans.
R-22 Is Getting Locked Up!
The EPA has determined that R-22 needs to be stopped! With the detrimental effects it’s had on the environment and the public’s health, it is no longer safe to use in the home. In fact, the EPA has ordered the production and importation of R-22 to come to a halt on Jan. 1, 2020. After this deadline, it will be illegal in this country to produce or import R-22, making it much more expensive to service a system that uses it.
If you get caught harboring this fugitive, you’ll face a costly punishment. Although it will still be legal to use R-22, it will be more expensive to repair or recharge systems that use it. Reason being, the only way to obtain this refrigerant will be by recycling, reusing or repurposing it.
Reward for Good Behavior
Systems with R-22 that are operating safely and efficiently may not need to be replaced. However, if you want to do your part to save the environment, you could turn your R-22 system in and replace it with a more efficient option.
Not sure what to do? We’ll be happy to help you weigh the evidence for and against a system replacement.
Those who choose to upgrade to a system that relies on safer alternatives to R-22 will make off with a system that:
- Uses 20% less refrigerant, which leads to lower energy costs
- Delivers more precise temperature control
- Reduces one’s carbon footprint
- Adds to a home’s resale value
- Improves the indoor air quality
- Pays off during tax season
- … And more!
Got a Lead? Report It to Cornerstone Pros
R-22 did the crime. Now, it needs to serve the time. Contact us to schedule your air conditioning replacement today!
System acting shady? If it relies on R-22, give Cornerstone Pros a call at 813.995.7558 or fill out our online form to schedule your AC repair in New Port Richey, FL, before Jan. 1, 2020!