Request ServiceWhat Homeowners Should Know
What Chagrin Falls Homeowners Need to Know About the R-22 Refrigerant Phase-Out
If you live in Chagrin Falls or nearby Northeast Ohio and own an older air conditioning system, you may be facing an important decision. With the phase-out of R-22 refrigerant (Freon) now fully in effect, maintaining, retrofitting, or replacing your AC unit is more important than ever. At Auburn Heating, we’re here to help you navigate your options so your home stays cool and comfortable—without unexpected costs.
As of January 2020, R-22 refrigerant—commonly known as Freon—has been officially phased out in the United States. This means it can no longer be produced or imported. The phase-out is part of an international effort to protect the ozone layer, mandated by the Montreal Protocol. Since the 1950s, R-22 was widely used in residential and commercial HVAC systems throughout areas like Chagrin Falls, Solon, and Aurora, but its ozone-depleting properties led to its gradual removal.
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Your Options for Dealing With an R-22 AC System
Here’s what Auburn Heating recommends for homeowners in Chagrin Falls, OH and surrounding areas:
1. Continue Using Your Current AC
If your system is in good condition and not leaking, you can continue using it for now. However, be aware that future repairs involving R-22 will be costly and may take longer due to limited availability.
2. Retrofit Your Air Conditioner
Some systems can be retrofitted to use a more environmentally friendly refrigerant like R-410A. Retrofitting can extend your system’s lifespan, but it’s not always possible. One of our Auburn Heating HVAC technicians can inspect your unit to see if this option is viable.
3. Replace Your AC System
If your air conditioner is over 10–15 years old, replacing it with a modern, energy-efficient system that uses alternative refrigerants is often the best long-term solution. New systems cool more efficiently, lower your energy bills, and reduce your carbon footprint.
Frequently Asked Questions about the R-22 Phase out
Why Was R-22 Refrigerant Phased Out?
R-22 contains chlorine, which damages the ozone layer when released into the atmosphere. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) first restricted R-22 in 2010, banning it from new AC systems. The final phase-out in 2020 ended production and importation, though reclaimed or recycled R-22 can still be used to service existing systems.
How Does the R-22 Refrigerant Phased Out Impact Chagrin Falls Homeowners?
If your air conditioner was manufactured before 2010, there’s a good chance it uses R-22 refrigerant. While you don’t need to replace your AC system immediately, repairs requiring refrigerant are becoming increasingly expensive. The limited supply of reclaimed R-22 has driven up prices, and aging systems are more likely to break down—especially during Ohio’s hot and humid summers.
Why Choose Auburn Heating, Plumbing & Air Conditioning?
At Auburn Heating, Plumbing & Air Conditioning, your comfort means everything to us. When you choose us for your HVAC or plumbing project, we bring you all kinds of benefits.
Over 50 Years in the Industry
We’ve watched the art of comfort evolve over decades. Our team combines current knowledge of HVAC and plumbing technology with the kind of expertise you can only get through raw experience.
Consistent Quality
We never cut corners, and we hold ourselves to the same high standards on every job. Rest assured that you’re always getting our best work.
Community Driven
As members of the Chagrin Valley Chamber of Commerce, we’re fully committed to improving life for our customers—who are also our friends and neighbors.
Service for Every Major Brand
No matter what kind of plumbing or HVAC equipment you have, our team can help. Contact us to troubleshoot and recommend solutions.
Our fully-equipped trucks are ready to come to you! Contact us to have your repairs carried out by some of the best technicians in the business.
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We Can’t Wait to Hear From You—Reach Out Today!
The Auburn Heating, Plumbing & Air Conditioning team is always ready to help with your plumbing and HVAC needs. Whether you need new equipment, repairs, a tune-up, or just some honest and trustworthy advice, you can count on us. Fill out the form here and one of our specialists will reach out to help as soon as possible.
Auburn Heating, Plumbing & Air Conditioning
16821 Park Circle Drive
Chagrin Falls, OH 44023
Call any day from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM or 24/7 for Emergency Service
We provide top-of-the-line HVAC & plumbing services to Chagrin Falls, Solon, Macedonia, Twinsburg, Mayfield Heights and beyond.
When you need professional support for your home comfort needs, Auburn Heating, Plumbing & Air Conditioning is your best bet! Even if we didn’t originally install your equipment, our team has what it takes to provide you with expert advice and make cost-effective improvements.
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Auburn Heating offers two different Healthy Home Membership levels for our clients. Choose the plan that’s best for you and start saving on your HVAC maintenance today!
Auburn Healthy Home Members get:
- Guaranteed to Receive Service Within 24 Hours of Your Emergency Call
- Guaranteed Priority Service
- Customize Your Plan with Your Choice of Safety Inspections
- Service History Record & Review
- No Warranty Processing Fee
- Exclusive Member Only Specials
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Trust the seasoned professionals at Auburn Heating, Plumbing & Air Conditioning with your next HVAC or plumbing job. We’re here to keep you safe, comfortable, & healthy!
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“I just wanted to take a moment to tell you how much I have appreciated our working relationship. From fixing the gas leak in my house to installing a new furnace, hot water heater, expansion tank and air conditioner this past year, your company and the service men I have encountered have all been professional and knowledgeable and completed the work in a timely, friendly and efficient manner.”
C.C.W
