Back in 1987 in an international environmental agreement, the United States began the phase-out of ozone depleting chlorofluorocarbons (CFC's).  The agreement has been modified a couple of times and phase out schedules modified.  In addition, it has now been agreed to phase out hydrochloroflurocarbons (HCFC).  HCFC's are less damaging to the ozone, but still do damage.

What does all this mean to us real estate agents and home buyers?  Basically, HCFC-22 (commonly known as R-22) has long been the refrigerant of choice for residential air conditioning systems.  R-22 will continue to be phased out over the next 10 years.

In January 2010 EPA prohibits chemical manufacturers to produce R-22 for use in NEW units.  So manufacturers will only be producing units that use a refrigerant such as R-410A or R-407C.  While chemical manufacturers can still produce or import R-22 for existing units (for the time being), the question comes up about the availability of parts.

New systems will incorporate components that specifically designed for use with specific replacement refrigerants.  They may be totally different that the systems in which they replace.

The next big deadline is January 2020.  At this point in time, chemical manufacturers will no longer be able to import or produce R-22 to service existing units.  However, they will be able to service existing units with R-22 that has been re-claimed or recycled from other units.

In Tucson, Arizona we rely upon our air conditioners during our hot summer months.  Home Buyers should be educated on this issue so there are no surprises in future years.  Recently a local home warranty company advised that they will continue to repair R-22 systems as long as parts are available.  However, when R-22 parts become unavailable they will replace the failed components with R410A equipment and cover the cost of modifications necessary to maintain compatibility.