Freon Costs Are On the Rise
R-22 Freon
Used as a cooling agent in HVAC systems, R-22 Freon is a refrigerant that is most commonly used in older air conditioning units that were produced before 2010. It is one of two types of refrigerants that keeps the air cool when it is emitted. This is done through indoor heat absorption, converting R-22 Freon from a low-pressure gas into a high-pressure liquid through an expansion valve. Refrigerant is a critical component to both absorbing heat and creating cool air. As hot air is sent outside, refrigerant returns back inside and is cooled by liquid refrigerated coils. That cool air travels through your ductwork and your “air conditioning” is blown inside.
You may run into cooling issues if you aren’t meeting your unit’s required refrigerant capacity. Generally, most air conditioning units are filled with around two to four pounds of Freon, per ton, and commercial grade units are usually five tons and above.
The expert team at Quick Servant can help you secure an R-22 Freon replacement, if necessary. Our professional technicians also provide numerous other commercial HVAC services to keep your units performing in top-shape.
R-22 Freon Costs
While our team has the ability to replace R-22 Freon, the cost of the product around the world will only continue to rise. R-22 Freon is being phased out because it has been found to be bad for the environment, specifically the ozone layer. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has sought to discontinue R-22 Freon since 2010 and production of the refrigerant completely stopped in 2020. However, a loophole over the past decade has led to the installation of many air conditioners that still use R-22. This has left little supply for units with R-22 Freon that need replacement.
Prices vary, but R-22 Freon costs are nowhere near the same as they were in the past, and with the product out of production, you will need to work with a professional HVAC contractor to receive the best price. In 2016, you may have found R-22 Freon for around $10 per pound. Today, that cost could be closer to $50 per pound or more.
R-410A Freon
The second common type of refrigerant used in HVAC units is R-410A Freon, which is produced for newer units as the preferred environmentally friendly product replacing R-22 Freon. R-410A Freon is used in a similar way as its predecessor, however, it is the approved type for modern air conditioning units, and is classified as a hydro-fluorocarbon (HFC), which means it does not deplete the ozone layer. This product is also designed with high-performance in mind, as its absorption and release properties help your air conditioning unit’s compressor more easily operate, reducing burnout, cracking, and extending life.
Consider upgrading your HVAC unit today to reduce emissions by turning to R-410A Freon. Schedule commercial service for your facility and the technicians at Quick Servant will be there to quickly and efficiently install a state-of-the-art system.
R-410A Freon Costs
Unfortunately, R-410A Freon costs are on the rise, but for slightly different reasons than R-22 Freon. The HVAC industry has not been immune to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as production from major manufacturers has slowed. However, supply chain efficiency is returning to pre-pandemic rates. Additionally, legal issues regarding “anti-dumping tariffs” have led to duties being collected on imports of HFC refrigerants from China, which is impacting the increase in R-410A costs.
While these issues and others have led to higher costs, R-410A Freon is the product that will be used for modern HVAC units moving forward. Quick Servant can install a new AC unit for your facility with a full amount of R-410 Freon that you won’t need to worry about replacing for a significant period of time. And when you do need additional product, we can help you secure it at the lowest available cost.
Commercial HVAC Services in DelMarva
If you need a new HVAC system for your commercial building, Quick Servant has the products and quality installation services to improve your facility’s environment. We often have special prices available and look for ways to help you save, with competitive pricing and the best HVAC systems on the market. Our professional technicians will ensure you are satisfied before the job is done. Give us a call today at (888) 238-4133 for all your commercial HVAC needs and contact us for more information.