Refrigerants are one of the most important components of an air conditioner.
R22 refrigerant is found in many different makes and models of air conditioning units.
This type of refrigerant is known for being efficient and reliable however, it’s also known for its high price. The rising cost of R22 refrigerant has been of utmost interest in the air conditioning industry for a few years now. Increased expenses like this concern both customers and companies alike especially since the problem is expected to continue. This leads many people to wonder what’s causing the price increase, and what is a fair price? While the components and materials used in the air conditioning industry can sometimes be a bit pricey due to their short supply, R22 has recently increased in cost. The main reason for this increase is because the environment issues associated with Freon. The green movement of recent decades has caused materials like this to come under fire by many groups who say it is too dangerous and poses a threat to the ozone layer. The Montreal Protocol was an environmental protection agreement brokered by the Environment Protection Authority(EPA) that began the show phase out of Freon. With production of R22 reduced in 2010, the price of this refrigerant has seen a steady increase throughout the years. In three years, it will no longer be produced at all. This means that continual decrease in supply coupled with its popular demand will lead to higher prices in this future. Most companies will charge $75 to $175 per pound of refrigerant. If you can find something around the $120 price range including servicing, you are probably doing as well as possible giving the rising cost. R-410A is a type of refrigerant that some people use as an alternative and it costs less too. It is advised to use the right type of refrigerant depending on your need and budget.