For years, Freon® (R-22) was synonymous with residential air-conditioning refrigerant.
Recognizing that the manufacture of Freon had an adverse effect on the environment, the EPA began a decade-long transition to more environmentally friendly products, like Puron® (R-410A), which concluded in 2020.
Designed to protect the ozone layer by phasing out substances, like the chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in Freon, the Montreal Protocol has undergone nine revisions since it went into effect in 1989. The Kigali Amendment, its most recent revision, gradually reduces the consumption and production of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), including Puron, and that means that another phase out is underway.
Signed into law in December of 2020, the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act (AIM) mandates the reduction of HFCs by 85% over the next 15 years. Several states, including California, have more aggressive timelines that are sure to influence the speed at which residential HVAC manufacturers phase out refrigerants with a high Global Warming Potential (GWP).
Carrier has already announced that, starting in 2023, all residential air conditioning systems manufactured in North America will use a Puron Advance™ (R-454-b), a refrigerant blend with considerably lower GWP than its predecessors. Other manufacturers are expected to follow suit.
What does this mean for you?
06 November 2025
Replace your old leaky ducts (and save some money) If you’ve noticed water spots on your ceiling during the summer (that aren’t roof-related), rooms that never seem to cool properly, or dust that just won’t go away, your ductwork could be to blame. M...
21 July 2025
When it comes to maintaining the comfort of residential communities and commercial properties in Sarasota, few things are as important as a reliable, well-maintained air conditioning system. That’s why so many property managers and community associat...
12 May 2025
Summer is almost here and temperatures in Sarasota will get up to 90 degrees or higher. Many homeowners will begin to notice the hidden flaws in their home’s defense against the heat. What might seem like minor issues during cooler months—such as lea...
23 April 2025
Summer is almost here, and with it comes sweltering temperatures, longer days, and air conditioners working overtime to keep our homes comfortable. While you’re enjoying that refreshing blast of cool air, there’s something important happening behind ...
02 April 2025
If your ductwork is over 20-30 years old, it might be time to start thinking about a replacement. While it’s easy to overlook, aging or damaged ducts can cause major issues—especially during the summer heat when your AC is working its hardest. One of...
10 May 2015
A very common reason for calling an air conditioning technician is when an air conditioning drain line becomes clogged. This is easily fixed and an avoidable problem, but a clogged drain line can pote...
30 November 2022
Bottom Line: New energy efficiency standards for air conditioners, heat pumps and furnaces are going into effect this January 1, 2023 and that means air conditioning prices are going up so, if you’re ...