Is R22 Colder than R410A Refrigerant?

Newer air conditioners are designed to use R410A refrigerant. A phase-out of R22, or Freon, began in 2010 after the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency found it was contributing to ozone layer depletion and ecological damage. No more AC units that use R22 are being built, and the old refrigerant is no longer being manufactured or imported. As supplies dwindle, some consumers are wondering, “Is R22 colder than R410A refrigerant?”

 

How R410A Differs from R22

 

R410A absorbs and releases heat more effectively than R22. Therefore, it improves the efficiency of heating and cooling systems and allows an AC or heat pump to run cooler. It can also heat or cool your home more quickly due to enhanced temperature-changing properties. On the other hand, R22 is more resistant to releasing heat, leaving the compressor vulnerable to burnout.

 

R22 Is Not Colder than R410A

 

In fact, R410A can cool a room slightly faster with less energy. Efficient performance is a significant benefit of R410A. However, it works the same way as R22 in absorbing heat to provide cooling. But R410A doesn’t make a room any colder than its predecessor. 

 

Overall, R410A contributes to faster heat transfer than R22. It operates at a higher pressure as well, which allows the compressor to tolerate more tension. This makes it less prone to wearing out and breaking down. The synthetic oil used in an R410A system is a more effective lubricant than the mineral oil used in R22 units, so overall, newer systems perform better.

 

Is R410A Compatible with Older Systems?

 

Newer AC systems cannot use the old refrigerant. Synthetic oil is not suited for R22 lines. And a  higher operating pressure means that using R410A in an older AC or heat pump can cause irreparable damage if the system isn’t properly modified. To swap out refrigerants, you’d have to install a new compressor and refrigerant line set (about an eight-hour job by an HVAC professional); it’s more cost-effective to replace an older HVAC system and benefit from fewer repairs, improved energy efficiency, and a new warranty.

 

While R410 is more efficient, the actual efficiency improvements vary depending on the design of the equipment it’s used in. 

 

Is R410A Here to Stay?

 

The R22 refrigerant previously used is harmful to the environment. R410A is not and won’t damage the ozone. However, it is not without caveats, as this newer refrigerant does contribute to global warming. It will eventually be phased out with other refrigerants within the next few years.

 

There are other refrigerants with greater efficiency and environmental benefits. Reducing electricity consumption is a goal as well. A refrigerant that may eventually replace R410A is R32, which has a 30% lower global warming potential over 100 years. But with R22 supplies quickly dwindling and the compound becoming obsolete, it’s a good idea to update to R410A-based HVAC equipment.

 

Contact Black Hills Home Services

To answer the question, “Is R22 colder than R410A?”, we know that R410A will help heat and cool a room more efficiently. Customers throughout the Olympia area benefit from energy efficiency with improved comfort and savings on their utility bills. If it’s time to replace your heating and cooling system, Black Hills Home Services can help in choosing the right equipment for your home. We also offer high-quality, professional AC maintenance and repair. To schedule service, use our online scheduling tool or call 888-743-1041.