At Sensible Heating & Cooling, we often get questions about why clients should or should not replace their air conditioners that utilize R-22 Freon (which is the Freon that most air conditioners currently use). Here is a brief overview of the most asked questions, and our take on this whole situation.
- Will I need to replace my A/C now that R-22 Freon is being phased out? The short answer to this is no. In the early 1990s, the EPA mandated that manufacturers had to make a different, safer type of Freon than the old R-12. The same thing is happening with R-22, which is the Freon that was developed to replace R-12. While it is considered to be safer than the old R-12, the chemicals in R-22 are still harmful to the environment, and manufacturers are now phasing this out as well. The process is slow, however, and companies such as Sensible will still be able to get R-22 for about ten more years. The price is rising now, though, and will continue to rise as the EPA and manufacturers encourage consumers to switch to safer alternatives.
- What are the alternatives that are safer for the environment? Heat pumps and geothermal systems are considered the safest alternatives for homeowners to choose.
- Why should I consider replacing my system now? One of the reasons we are recommending that consumers replace their systems now are the rebates and tax credits that are available through the end of the year. Homeowners who are looking to find a safe option, as well as save money in the short and long term should really consider replacing their system by December 31st to receive these incentives.
- Can I replace my A/C in the cooler weather? Xcel requires that the system be tested once the temperature reaches 80 degrees, but Sensible Heating & Cooling can install the system before the end of the year, test the system in the early summer, and still submit the information to Xcel by the July 2017 deadline. We will work with homeowners to make sure all paperwork is properly completed and submitted so they can receive their rebates. With the tax credits, we advise that homeowners speak to their tax professional, and we will answer any questions to help navigate that process.
If you have additional questions, or would like to schedule a free estimate for a new system, reach out today. You can email Sensible Heating & Cooling owner Dan Schmied at [email protected] or call us directly at 720.876.7166 to schedule a time. Don’t wait – the end of the year is fast approaching.
