R-410A Phase-Out: Part Two – Retrofit vs. Replacement

As we mentioned in part one of our three-part series on the R-410A phase-out, R-410A was found to be damaging to the environment by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), particularly to the ozone, requiring a phase-out to take place over the next 15 years. You’ll recall that your friends at Schneider Heating & Air Conditioning want our clients to be fully informed consumers, armed with the facts.  Learn more about whether to retrofit your HVAC unit or replace it with a new system below!

What is a retrofit?

Very simply put, a “retrofit” means a refrigerant gas that can be substituted for the existing refrigerant without any changes to the system. For a refrigerant to be classified as a retrofit, it must meet the mechanical requirements of the system, and it also needs to comply with regulations and standards including those outlined in the EPA’s AIM Act Phasedown. Retrofitting a system is cheaper than replacing your HVAC unit, and for many homeowners, this can be a very viable option, provided that your AC unit can be retrofitted in the first place. Yes, you read that right: not all HVAC units can be retrofitted – it depends on the type of freon used, the quality of your HVAC unit, and other factors.

Can an R-410A be retrofitted?

Great Question! The short answer is no, it cannot be retrofitted.

When R-22 began its phase-out, for example, an HVAC tech could retrofit the system; meaning, he or she would replace/upgrade parts of the unit necessary to allow the use of R-410A refrigerant instead of the old, R-22. Retrofitting can be a costly endeavor, with prices in the thousands of dollars depending on the type of unit, unit size, etc.  Though it can be expensive, it is still recognized as a cheaper option than replacing your unit.

R-410A refrigerant, however, cannot be retrofitted as there is no known substitute available. When no substitute is available, a replacement system is required.

What can I do to prepare?

Remember that while it may seem premature, over the next 15 years, R-410A costs will increase significantly and it may be time to consider getting a new system if your current R-22 or R-410A system is getting old. Remember your friends at Schneider Heating & Air Conditioning are always available to discuss, diagnose, and treat your air conditioning needs.  Don’t wait, call us today!

Schneider Heating & Air Conditioning is the leader in heating, cooling, ventilation, and air quality products and services in the La Crosse area. We have been serving the Coulee Region for more than 80 years. Our technicians are highly and continually trained utilizing the most sophisticated HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technologies and equipment. All of our service technicians are NATE (North American Technician Excellence) certified—the largest non-profit certification organization that is governed, owned, operated, developed, and supported by the HVAC industry. At Schneider Heating & Air Conditioning, we pride ourselves on amazing customer service. Contact us today and ask for Aeroseal duct sealing.