Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) represent the largest remaining use of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) in the EU. HCFCs are mainly used in refrigeration and air conditioning equipment.
The use of HCFCs in new equipment was banned in 2001. From 1 January 2015 the use of ‘recycled’ and ‘reclaimed’ HCFCs to top up or service existing equipment is also banned. You can still use your old equipment, but your technician cannot do any work that involves breaking into the refrigerant circuits.
YOUR OPTIONS
OPTION A:
Continue to use system and use R22 drop-in replacement refrigerant for service and maintenance. Drop-in refrigerants are expensive and may reduce the efficiency of the system.
OPTION B:
Replace the equipment with the latest energy efficient R410a system.
Cooling Techniques Ltd is able to offer advice on suitable equipment to replace existing R22 systems. New R410a inverter technology is approximately 50% more energy efficient than the old R22 fixed-speed systems. New inverter equipment can reduce your energy bill by half and can pay for itself in 2-3 years. Often it is possible to use existing interconnecting pipes and control wiring which reduces cost.
Please contact us to discuss the options in more detail.