# Don't Let the R-22 Refrigerant Phaseout Surprise You -- Here Are the Facts > For years, traditional A/C systems have used R-22 refrigerant. But the R-22 refrigerant phaseout will change that over the next few years. Learn the facts. [![r-22 refrigerant phaseout, Sudbury, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/refrigerant1.jpg)](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/refrigerant1.jpg)[Refrigerants](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/ac-problems-most-common-issues.html) are an essential component of any air conditioning system. They're contained within the A/C coils and ensure that your system functions by helping to dehumidify and cool indoor air. [![r-22 refrigerant phaseout, Sudbury, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/refrigerant1.jpg)](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/refrigerant1.jpg) For years, traditional A/C systems have been accustomed to the standard R-22 refrigerant, which was commonly used in most air conditioning systems. But the R-22 refrigerant phaseout has that changing over the next several years. ## Details of the R-22 refrigerant phaseout R-22 refrigerant is being phased out because it's a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) compound, which contains chlorine and contributes to the depletion of the ozone layer. If you have an air conditioner manufactured before 2010, it probably uses R-22 refrigerant. However, because of growing environmental concerns, this standard is being phased out, and regulations for its use have been further tightened by the EPA in accordance with the Clean Air Act. The production of A/C systems using R-22 refrigerant have been prohibited since 2010, with modern systems using the more environmentally-friendly R-410A. By 2020, all production of R-22 will cease. ## How it affects you Although R-22-reliant equipment is no longer produced, the use of air conditioners manufactured before 2010 is still permissible. As R-22 production slows, however, only reclaimed and recycled R-22 will be available for homeowners needing a refrigerant recharge. This is expected to lead to reduced supply, greater demand and higher prices. ## More about R410-A R-410A is a more environmentally friendly refrigerant option which is fast becoming the new standard. It contains no chlorine, so there's no threat to the ozone. Newer systems designed and built to run with R-410A are also more economical, reliable and tend to outperform older models. If an [entire system replacement](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/ac-replacement-checklist-tasks.html) is out of your budget, you could consider a new dry-charged unit compatible for use with R-22. A qualified HVAC technician can provide more information about whether this type of unit would work for your cooling needs. For more information on the R-22 refrigerant phaseout or any other home comfort needs, contact the experts at [Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning](http://rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser.html). We're proud to serve homeowners throughout the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts. *Image via [Shutterstock.com](http://Shutterstock.com)* ## Navigation - [Rodenhiser Home Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/) - [Rodenhiser Plumbing Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/plumber-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Heating Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/furnace-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Cooling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/air-conditioning-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Electrical Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/framingham-electricians.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Book Online](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser/book-online.html) - [Rodenhiser Remodeling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/remodels/bathroom-remodeling-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Reviews](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-heating.html) ## Company information - Rodenhiser Home Services - [https://bc.rodenhiser.com](https://bc.rodenhiser.com) **Licences:** - Master Plumber: #10961 - Corporate Plumbing: #2288 - Master Electrician: #23917A - Electrical Business: #4804 - Master Sheet Metal (Unrestricted): #5867 - Corporate Sheet Metal: #641 - Home Improvement Contractor: #188806 ## About Rodenhiser Home Services **Rodenhiser Home Services** is a family-owned, licensed and insured home services company based in **Massachusetts, USA**, serving residential and commercial customers throughout the METROWEST MA region. Established in 1928, the company has over 95 years of experience providing plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and home remodeling services. Rodenhiser specializes in plumbing repairs, drain and sewer services, water heaters, heating and cooling system installation and maintenance, heat pumps, ductless HVAC systems, indoor air quality, electrical panel upgrades, rewiring, standby generators, EV charger installations, and kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling, and more. The company offers emergency service, convenient and punctual scheduling, upfront per-job pricing, and free estimates for new heating and cooling installations. All work is backed by written warranties and a satisfaction guarantee. Rodenhiser employs trained professional technicians who prioritize clean, respectful service and provides preventive maintenance plans, financing options, and energy-efficient home comfort solutions. Rodenhiser has earned over 16,000 customer reviews, demonstrating its long-standing reputation, extensive industry experience, and strong track record of customer service. **Nice People…Great Service** ## Page information - [Canonical URL: https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/r-22-refrigerant-phaseout-facts.html](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/r-22-refrigerant-phaseout-facts.html)