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R22 Phase Out

From 1st January 2010 there will be a European Legislation ban on the use of new R22 refrigerant. Many people though are still unaware of these changes and how it might affect their business.

What is R22?

Used widely throughout air conditioning systems and refrigeration plants, R22 is a low temperature refrigerant.

Why does it need to be replaced?

Studies have shown that R22 has a detrimental effect on the ozone layer and has resulted in EU legislation which states:

• In 2000, R22 was banned in all new systems
• In 2010, new stocks of R22 refrigerant shall be prohibited in the maintenance and servicing of refrigeration and air conditioning equipment
• In 2015, recycled stocks of R22 refrigerant will be banned

What effect will this have on my business?

Unfortunately this means that the cost of maintaining your current system is likely to rise. From 2010 nobody knows how much R22 will be available. This will result in depleted stocks of recycled refrigerant and with increased demand; prices are therefore likely to escalate. Also, parts for R22 equipment will become scarce as the manufacturers run down their stocks.

What do I need to do?

If your business is affected by the R22 legislation, you will need to move towards using an environmentally friendly refrigerant which is incorporated in all new equipment.

Which refrigerants are safe to use?

There are many environmentally friendly options which can be used, the most popular of these is R410a, which is a non ozone depleting refrigerant and is used by all of the world's leading air conditioning manufactures.

Is this the only option?

As refrigerant manufactures have been aware of the new legislation for some time now, many have been trying to develop, "drop in" refrigerants that can be used with current R22 systems as a direct replacement. This however, has not proved to be a massive success. One of reasons for the lack of success of the, "drop in" refrigerants is the development of the Inverter system. These systems offer substantial running cost savings compared to "old" style R22 systems. Most consumers when considering the options choose to install new equipment because they can see the clear financial benefits this brings, as well as huge reductions in CO2 emissions.

An Inverter system requires less energy to operate. Consumption can therefore be reduced by up to 40%, and with fuel bills having risen over recent years, the cost of the installing new equipment can be recouped by means of energy saving within a few years. So, it's not the only option, but if money and CO2 matter, then it is the only sensible option.

Can I get help with this?

Yes you can. The Carbon Trust offer interest free loans to companies replacing their old R22 systems. Also, under the Government's Enhanced Capital Allowance Scheme (ECA), tax incentives for energy saving equipment means your company can normally claim back 100% tax on the cost of the whole installation.