R-22 Refrigerant vs. R-410A Refrigerant vs. R-32 Refrigerant

R-22, also known as R-22 freon, was a refrigerant commonly used in air conditioners before 2010. However, it was found to have a negative impact on the ozone layer as it was a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) chemical which depletes the ozone layer and allows UV radiation to harm the ecosystem. Additionally, R-22 is toxic and can cause respiratory issues. To address this, the Environmental Protection Agency phased out the use of R-22 and banned companies from manufacturing and importing these units in 2010, reducing 90% of its use in 2015 and completely banning it on Jan. 1, 2020. Homeowners who still use R-22 in their HVAC systems now have to rely on a limited supply of recycled or stockpiled R-22. R-410A refrigerant is now the most commonly used refrigerant, being chlorine-free and more efficient than R-22. However, R-410A still has a high global warming potential. A new refrigerant, R-32, is now available on the market and has only one-third of the GWP of R-410A, uses 20% less refrigerant, is easier to recycle, and is more efficient.

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