Your current system may use the refrigerant Freon (technically called HCFC-22). It circulates through the “veins” of your air conditioner’s compressor to make them cold.
“Houston, we have a problem.”
Freon has been canceled.
Under the U.S. Clean Air Act on substances depleting the ozone layer, the U.S. phased out Freon in the 1990s and, in January 2020, stopped production and imports of air conditioners that use them.
According to the EPA; “the most important thing that you can do is maintain [your air conditioner] properly because appropriate servicing minimizes potential environmental damage and prolongs the life of the system.”
So what does this mean for people with air conditioners that use Freon?
Get an AC tune-up every 6 months. If the refrigerant level is low, find and fix the leak, or discuss replacing the system. Every air conditioner is designed to cool a space efficiently.
What should I do if my air conditioner is leaking Freon?
If your air conditioning is central, the Freon is restricted to the compressor outside of your home and you likely do not know that it is leaking. The real danger is with window air conditioners which could blow the leaking Freon into your living space. Freon is colorless and odorless therefore it can be hard to detect, but it can cause health complications when overly exposed to it.
If your air conditioner is leaking Freon, turn it off from the electrical panel or unplug it from the power source.
Next, call a professional to locate and seal the leak and replace the Freon coolant with a modern refrigerant.
At Precision Air, we offer 24/7 emergency AC services because your family’s safety comes first.
