Refrigerants are an important part of cooling systems, as they are what help cool the air down. Without refrigerants, your AC unit will not cool your home effectively, making them necessary for the unit to run and work properly. Different refrigerants can influence efficiency, environmental impact, and overall AC performance, which makes the choice of which one to use much more important. All Year Cooling and Plumbing is known for our expertise in cooling and helping homeowners choose and maintain the right system for the best performance, which includes refrigerant. We are going to dive more into how refrigerant directly affects AC performance, signs to look out for, and how you can contact us if your AC unit isn’t cooling your home effectively.
What is a Refrigerant?
A refrigerant, when it comes to air conditioning units and cooling, is a chemical compound that absorbs and releases heat to cool indoor air. It’s a vital part of air conditioning effectiveness. It circulates throughout the unit from compression to evaporation, which helps regulate the temperature. That said, not all refrigerants are equal, and there are different types out there that can affect air cooling, effectiveness, and environmental impact.
Common Types of Refrigerants Used in Air Conditioners
All air conditioners use a refrigerant of some type in order to cool the air and work properly. Below are some of the most common types, what they are, and how they work, so that you can get a better idea of the options available.
R-22: Freon
Freon is one of the most well-known refrigerants because of how common and widely used it once was. However, it’s not used as much and is being phased out now due to environmental regulations and its impact. It’s an efficient option, but it ultimately depletes the ozone, making it not a great choice for environmental friendliness. Homeowners who choose this option often face costly refills with limited availability now. If you are still using Freon, it’s time to upgrade your system so that it uses another refrigerant option.
R-410A: Puron
Puron is now the current standard for most modern AC systems and has become the replacement for Freon. It is much more energy-efficient and safer, complying with modern regulations. It works with newer, higher-efficiency units and provides better cooling performance than older options.
R-32
This refrigerant is becoming a more popular option in newer systems due to its high efficiency and low global warming potential. Environmental factors are becoming a huge focus in determining what type of refrigerant is used. R-32 also requires less refrigerant for the same cooling effect, which leads to fewer refills. It’s become a representation of what eco-friendly cooling will look like in the future.
CO2, Propane, Hydrocarbons: New and Emerging Options
These alternatives are gaining popularity as sustainable options with low global warming potential. They are being adopted into some residential systems and could potentially shape the direction of HVAC innovation.
How Refrigerant Type Affects AC Performance
Refrigerant type affects several different factors, as we’ve seen when looking at the various types. Let’s dive deeper into the different areas that are affected so that you can better understand how refrigerant types impact AC performance.
Cooling: The efficiency of cooling varies based on the refrigerant type, as some release and absorb heat more effectively than others.
Energy Consumption: Some refrigerants use much more energy than others to achieve the same amount of cooling, which will be reflected in your energy bills.
Environmental Impact: This is increasingly being considered, as environmentally friendly options are needed for sustainability and regulatory compliance.
Pressure and Temperature: Different refrigerants operate at different pressures and temperatures.
Maintenance: Some refrigerants need to be refilled more frequently than others, and certain types can also be better for the unit’s longevity and lifespan.
When to Consider Upgrading Your AC System
It might be difficult to know exactly when you should consider upgrading your system, especially if you’re not a professional or haven’t had an inspection done on your unit. Here are some signs to look out for:
Your unit is over 10–15 years old
High, unexplained energy bills
Frequent repairs
Your system still uses Freon for cooling
Inconsistent temperatures
Poor air quality
The system isn’t efficiently cooling your home
It’s best to upgrade to a modern system for many reasons, including efficiency, comfort, performance, and lower operating costs. If you notice any of the signs above or if your home hasn’t had an upgrade in 10–15 years, it’s time to get an inspection and learn about your options for an AC upgrade.
Upgrades with All Year Cooling and Plumbing
At All Year Cooling and Plumbing, we have years of experience working with cooling systems and air conditioning units. We understand how important it is to maintain cool and consistent indoor temperatures, especially in a hot climate like Florida. Ultimately, we’re here to help you get the best care for your unit to ensure an effective cooling system for your home. If you’ve noticed any of the signs above or are interested in hearing about upgrade options, be sure to contact us so we can help you get your home feeling comfortable and your unit working as efficiently as possible.