Extend the Life of Stationary AC and Heat Pumps with Retrofit Refrigerants
Air conditioners (AC) and heat pumps running on R-22 refrigerant currently face a series of problems that include:
- Price instability of R-22 air conditioner repairs
- A declining supply of the refrigerant
- Price Instability
Switching to another refrigerant or retrofitting an existing system away from R-22 requires analyzing the pros and cons of each option. Replacing older systems may make financial sense for equipment nearing the end of their lifespans, while retrofitting current HVAC systems makes sense for well-running systems that have a significant amount of use remaining. A final factor to consider is the cost to repair systems that still use R-22 as R-22 regulations tighten.
"Topping off" the refrigerants in existing AC and heat pump equipment is a standard part of the periodic service to maintain these systems. But as R-22 continues its phase out, routine service calls offer the perfect opportunity to switch to a refrigerant that will last the unit’s lifetime.
While there is no such thing as a simple drop-in solution, a number of Freon™ refrigerants offer quick and non-disruptive ways to retrofit an existing system.
For example, Freon™ MO99 offers operating pressure and temperatures that closely match R-22. A retrofit with Freon™ MO99 does not require:
- An oil change thanks to Freon™ MO99’s compatibility with mineral, alkylbenzene, and polyolester (POE) oils
- Cutting out from compressors to dump oil
- A thermostatic expansion valve (TXV) or line set changes
A system can be evacuated and charged with Freon™ MO99 after technicians make any repairs and change seals and filter driers.
Expected Performance After Retrofit
Both Freon™ MO99 and Freon™ NU-22B have been specifically formulated to replace R-22 over a wide range of evaporator temperatures.
