The EPA ended US production and import of HCFC-22, or R-22, on January 1, 2020. You may keep using an existing R-22 system as long as needed, and only recycled, reclaimed or previously produced R-22 can service it. Supply and price can change, so plan for repair costs and eventual replacement.
Many older walk-ins in Hattiesburg still run on R-22. They are not banned, but the supply of refrigerant is shrinking and the equipment is aging.
What the EPA says
- US production and import of HCFC-22 ended on January 1, 2020.
- You may continue to use R-22 in existing systems.
- After 2020 only recycled, reclaimed or previously produced R-22 can service existing equipment.
- There is no EPA mandate to convert or replace existing R-22 equipment.
- Price and availability of R-22 may change.
What this means for repairs
| Situation | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Small leak, good box | Repair the leak, recharge with reclaimed R-22 if available |
| Repeated leaks | Cost of refrigerant and labor adds up, retrofit or replacement may be cheaper |
| Compressor failure | Weigh a new R-22 compressor against a system replacement |
| Coil leak | Repair is often costly, consider replacement |
| Box in good shape, equipment old | Replacing the refrigeration system alone may be sensible |
Retrofit options
Some systems can be converted to an alternative refrigerant, but conversion is not a simple swap. Oil, seals, valves, drier and controls may need changing, and the alternative must be approved for the application. Performance and capacity can differ. A technician should evaluate the system before recommending a retrofit. Never mix refrigerants or add a substitute to an R-22 system without proper conversion.
Planning ahead
- Find out what refrigerant your system uses from the nameplate.
- Ask your technician how much charge it holds and how old the equipment is.
- Track repair costs each year.
- Get a replacement quote before an emergency.
- Ask about cold storage options while planning, so there is a plan if the system fails.
Recovery matters
When an R-22 system is retired, the refrigerant must be recovered, not vented, so it can be reclaimed for other systems. Ask that recovery be documented. See why a certified technician must handle refrigerant, repair or replace and repair and replacement costs.
Refrigerant rules are set by the EPA and have been changing, so this page is general information. Confirm current requirements with your technician or the EPA before making decisions.
Questions to ask before a big R-22 repair
- How much would the repair cost compared with a new system?
- How old are the box and the compressor?
- What is the reclaimed R-22 price today, and how available is it?
- Will the new part be compatible with the existing refrigerant?
- What warranty comes with the repair?
A candid technician will help you compare the options and tell you if repair is the wrong idea.
Questions about this topic
Is R-22 illegal to use?
No. You may keep using existing equipment. New production and import ended.
Can I buy new R-22?
Only recycled, reclaimed or previously produced R-22 is available for servicing.
Should I replace my R-22 walk-in now?
It depends on the condition of the box and the repair history. Get an evaluation and a quote.