Understanding Refrigerants: What Homeowners Need to Know

Refrigerant is the substance your air conditioner’s outdoor unit (the condenser) uses to cool your home when the thermostat is set to “cool.” The most well-known refrigerant is Freon, a brand name often used to refer to R-22.

Here’s how it works: the cold refrigerant is pumped through lines to the indoor coil in your air handler or furnace. The furnace fan then blows cooled air through the ductwork, distributing it throughout your home. (A heat pump reverses the process for heating)

If your AC is struggling to cool your home—running longer and working harder to maintain your set temperature—it could be low on refrigerant. In this case, your HVAC technician will need to inspect the system and, if needed, recharge it with the correct type of refrigerant.

Over the years, refrigerants have changed due to environmental concerns and the push for improved energy efficiency. 

The table below outlines key refrigerants, their timelines, and their current status:

Refrigerant Timeline

Older HVAC systems still in operation are becoming more expensive to maintain due to the rising costs of both parts and refrigerants.

As of January 1, 2025, R-410A systems are no longer being manufactured. However, any R-410A systems manufactured before this date can still be sold and installed until January 1, 2026.

If either your condenser or air handler/furnace becomes unrepairable and requires replacement, (It is almost always better to replace both units) ensure that the new unit is fully compatible with the one you’re keeping. Mismatched systems - especially those made in different years or by different manufacturers - can be up to 30% less efficient than a properly matched system.

When it’s time to repair or replace any part of your HVAC system, contact your qualified HVAC technician and  keep this refrigerant information in mind to make the most cost-effective and environmentally responsible decision.