Do You Need Coolant for AC? Learn the Best Options.

The air-conditioning systems currently available use different kinds of coolant. The more you know about coolant for AC systems, the more informed your decisions will be regarding repair, maintenance, and upgrading your HVAC system. Below are the types of AC coolant available and their properties.

R-22

R-22, commonly referred to as Freon, is no longer used in new AC systems because it damages the ozone layer. Manufacturing and importing R-22 coolant became illegal in the United States in 2020. The coolant has been severely limited, making it expensive to recharge older R-22 air conditioners with the coolant.

R-410A

R-410A is widely used in newer residential and light commercial air conditioners as a coolant for AC. It’s commonly known by brand names like Puron, Genetron AZ-20, and Suva 9100. It does not damage the ozone layer. Its operating pressures are higher than those of R-22, so the components of R-410A systems must work at pressures more than 50% higher than those of R-22 systems.

R-134a

Many AC and refrigeration systems use this coolant. It is utilized by many large commercial screw chillers. R-134a was the first fluorocarbon coolant without ozone-depleting properties to be commercialized successfully.

R-407C

This coolant has thermodynamic properties that closely match those in R-22. It doesn’t cause atmospheric ozone depletion. Because of its similar pressures to R-22, it’s a common replacement coolant for people wishing to retrofit their R-22 systems.

Which Is the Most Advantageous Coolant for AC?

R-410A is an excellent coolant option in the long term for residential and light commercial AC systems. It’s more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly than R-22. Systems that use R-410A coolant operate better and minimize the wear and tear on the compressor.

Considering how cost-prohibitive recharging an older system with R-22 may be, it makes economic sense to replace your old system with a newer one that uses the more readily available R-410A. To learn more about the types of coolant for AC systems, contact Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning. Lorain-area homeowners have counted on us to install, repair, and service their HVAC equipment for the past 35 years.