Still Running on R-22? Here’s Why That’s a Risk You Can’t Afford and How to Tell

If your home still uses an R-22 HVAC system, the time to replace it is right now. R-22 (commonly known as Freon) has been banned from production and import in the U.S. since 2020. Replacement parts are becoming nearly impossible to find, and the cost of repairs continues to rise dramatically.

More importantly, you cannot retrofit an R-22 system to use the next generation of A2L refrigerants such as R-454B. These refrigerants require entirely new equipment, updated ventilation, and additional safety protocols. Once R-410A is no longer available, R-22 homeowners will face only one option: a full system redesign at a much higher cost.

If you’re looking to avoid that financial hit, now is the time to replace your R-22 system with a modern R-410A system while supplies and rebates last.

How to Tell If Your System Uses R-22

Here’s how to check:

1. Look at the Outdoor Unit Label
   On your outdoor condenser, find the manufacturer’s nameplate (usually a metal tag).
   Look for “R-22” or “HCFC-22” listed under refrigerant type.
   If it’s there, your system is using obsolete refrigerant.

2. Review Past Service Reports
   If any technician noted the use of “Freon” or R-22 during maintenance, that’s confirmation.

3. Check the Installation Year
   Systems installed before 2010 almost always use R-22.
   Units installed between 2010 and 2015 may still be R-22 due to lingering stock at the time.

Still unsure? Contact North Winds Mechanical. We’ll perform a quick inspection to confirm and advise on your next steps.

Why R-410A Is Your Best and Last Transitional Option

R-410A systems are:

• Fully eligible for 2025 Mass Save rebates and federal tax incentives

• The only viable replacement path for outdated R-22 systems

• Much less expensive than A2L systems, which require more complex installation procedures

However, R-410A is also being phased out.

• No new R-410A equipment will be manufactured starting in 2025

• Supply is shrinking quickly

• Prices are expected to increase as remaining inventory is sold off

North Winds Mechanical anticipated this transition. We still have R-410A systems in stock that qualify for rebates. But when they are gone, they are gone.

Why Waiting Will Cost You Thousands

Delaying your upgrade could result in:

• Up to $2,000 in lost rebates

• $2,000 to $4,000 more in equipment and labor costs for A2L systems

• Fewer system options and longer wait times

• No direct upgrade path if your R-22 system fails mid-season

For larger homes and geothermal systems, the cost of waiting can exceed tens of thousands of dollars.

Nantucket-Specific Concerns

Nantucket homeowners face additional pressures:

• Loss of rental income if cooling fails during the season

• Delays due to ferry schedules, freight issues, and limited local labor

• Permit backlogs that worsen later in the summer

If your system breaks this summer, you may have no replacement options left.

North Winds Mechanical Is Certified, Stocked, and Ready

We are one of the few contractors on-island who are:

• Certified by both HPIN and HPLN, giving you access to all Mass Save rebates and 0% HEAT Loans

• Stocked with R-410A equipment ready for installation

• Trusted for high-performance work on Nantucket’s most demanding homes

We manage everything: inspection, system design, permitting, rebate filing, and full installation.

Book Now Before the Rebates Drop and R-410A Inventory Disappears

We are already booking into the fall. R-410A inventory is low, rebates are set to drop, and new A2L systems cost significantly more.

Call North Winds Mechanical today to check your system, secure an R-410A upgrade, and lock in your savings for 2025.