R-22 is a colorless gas that also goes by the name of chlorodifluoromethane. Its most common name is Freon. Its use as a propellant and refrigerant has been banned by the EPA because of its high ODP or ozone depletion potential, and GWP or global warming potential. In short, R-22 refrigerants are a widely known environmental hazard.
R-22 usually comes in light green-colored cylinders and they have been phased out in the United States under the Montreal Protocol in 1987. The Montreal Protocol is an international treaty with a focus on phasing out any chemical or substance that is proven to be harmful to the ozone layer. It was first brought up in September 16, 1987 and it was finalized for implementation beginning on January 1, 1989.
R22 refrigerant has been used for years in central air conditioners, heat pumps, mini-splits, car AC systems, and other refrigeration equipment. It’s the key to absorbing and removing heat from a space.
Why is R22 being phased out?
R-22 is a greenhouse gas that contributes to the depletion of the Earth’s ozone layer and to global warming. Since we rely on the ozone to absorb harmful UV radiation, it’s very important to pinpoint and eliminate the use of greenhouse gases whenever possible. The R-22 phase-out is occurring in accordance with the U.S. Clean Air Act and the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.
Since 2010, the manufacturing of new R-22 has been prohibited. Only recycled and reused R-22 may be used to service HVAC units such as refrigerators and air conditioners. This new practice is called “recovery,” wherein all traces of the gas are sucked out from the machines and are replaced with a safer alternative, instead of pumping new R-22 into the units.
In January 1, 2015, it was declared illegal and punishable by law to service refrigerators and air conditioning units that still used R-22 refrigerant. Broken equipment that needed servicing were required to be replaced with units that did not need to run using R-22.
Now that it’s a given that you’ll have to replace the R-22 in any HVAC, heat pump, or refrigeration unit that uses it, we have two exciting options for you:
The Buy Back Program
When you sign up for the Buy Back Program, you’ll have three options available to you. First, we can give you good-as-new refrigerants in return for your used, contaminated or burnt refrigerants. Second, we can buy your old or used refrigerants at very competitive rates. And last, but not least, we can exchange your used refrigerants for EPA-compliant and environmentally safe types of refrigerants. In addition to the state-of-the-art technology we use to minimize leaks and toxic contamination; after completing all recovery procedures our team will inspect the surrounding area for any leakages or unwanted waste so that we can ensure that your workplace is safe.
The Clean Exchange Program
Our Clean Exchange Program enables you to swap your expired or otherwise useless refrigerant containers with clean, up-to-date and DOT certified cylinders. We handle all kinds of cylinders ranging from full to empty and we retrieve even those that have expired. Not only that, we pay you for every drop of refrigerant that we can recover from them. We are well-equipped to handle containers of all sizes starting from 30 pounds to as much as 125 pounds. Our operation takes care of everything from pickup, consolidation and delivery. On top of that, we offer complete and detailed EPA documentation for all clients.
Not only do you get a new revenue stream from us paying you for your old, used refrigerants, you also take a step towards a healthier, eco-friendlier environment by supporting and participating in the elimination of toxic refrigerants. If you want to learn more about our programs that can help you get a handle on R-22, simply call us at 844-PURECFC (787-3232). You can also opt to use our online contact form. We at Refrigerant Services LLC are fully certified to handle and recycle your old refrigerants so you can be sure that you’re getting the best quality service and safety for your employees.
