One of the hottest discussions within the air conditioning and heating industry is the difference betweenR-22 and R-410A refrigerants. As a homeowner considering a purchase, it’s important that you understand the difference so you can make the best decision for your system. We’ve outlined below the main differences and why they matter.
R-22
- Often referred to by a brand name like Freon®
- As of 2010, R-22 was discontinued for use in new air conditioning systems
- R-22 is a hydro-chlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) which contributes to ozone depletion
R-410A
- Often referred to by a brand name like Puron®
- Has been approved for use in new residential air conditioners
- Is a hydro-fluorocarbon (HFC) which does not contribute to ozone depletion
- Will become the new standard for U.S. residential air conditioning systems in 2015
Performance Differences
Newer air conditioning models are designed to be used with R-410A for reliable and more efficient operation. Because R-410A can absorb and release more heat than R-22, your air conditioning compressor can run cooler, reducing the risk of compressor burnout due to overheating.
R-410A also functions at a higher pressure than R-22, so new compressors are built to withstand greater stresses, reducing the chance for cracking. If you were to put R-410A refrigerant into a system designed for R-22, the pressure would be too much and the unit would break.
All air conditioners use an oil to keep the compressor lubricated during operation. R-22 air conditioners use mineral oil and R-410A systems use synthetic oil. The synthetic oil is generally more soluble with R-410A than mineral oil is with R-22. This means the R-410A system operates more efficiently reducing wear and tear on the compressor.