What’s the Difference Between R-22 and R-410A?
Your air conditioner’s refrigerant is a critical component of the HVAC system. It is the refrigerant that cools down the air in the unit, which is later pushed out into your home through the ductwork. Refrigerant is also used for producing hot air in winter.
Refrigerants differ based on chemical composition. There have been some changes in legislation that are meant to phase out the older R22 in favor of the R410a. In this blog, we look at the differences between the two and why you may want to upgrade to R410a for better air conditioning in Knoxville.
What Is R22?
R22 refrigerant is also called Freon. It is made from a single chemical compound called “Chlorodifluoromethane”. This type of refrigerant can come in either liquid or vapor form.
In 2004, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency started to phase out R22. Extensive studies had shown that this refrigerant can have drastic effects on the ecosystem in general and the ozone layer in particular
R22 leakages can be extremely caustic and can potentially damage the planet, specifically by causing ozone depletion. In 2010, the government made it illegal to manufacture new units that use R22.
By 2030, R22 will become completely illegal. As of January 2020, it can no longer be manufactured in the United States or is allowed to be imported for use.
What Is R410A?
R410A is commonly known as Puron. It is a chemical compound that is made from a blend of two different chemicals, R32 and R125. Both of them are mixed in a 50 percent ratio. Each chemical has a differing pressure and more importantly a different size molecule.
R410A is not as damaging for the environment as R22. It is approved for use in air conditioners. That is why most new HVAC systems are designed to use R410A. If you purchased a system after 2010, chances are that it uses R410A.
If you’re not sure about the refrigerant used in your AC, you can find out by checking the sticker label outside the unit.
Why You Should Change to R410A
Here are some of the main reasons to switch your AC refrigerant from R22 to R410A.
- Lower Ozone Damage: Research shows that R22 contributes to ozone depletion when it leaks. If you care about Earth’s sustainability, you should consider switching to R410A.
- Reduced cost: As R22 is currently being phased out, it is becoming more difficult and expensive to find it in the market. The price of R22 is expected to go up over time which will make your AC more expensive to operate.
- Improved efficiency: Tests have shown that R410A absorbs and releases heat more efficiently than R22. It is also more fluid in terms of temperature variance. Overall, Puron does a more effective job of heating up or cooling down your home temperature based on your needs.
- Lower Component Damage: Once R22 is heated up, it takes longer to cool down. This can potentially cause the compressor to burn out quicker. R410A has faster heat up and cool down times, which helps other AC parts last longer.
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