Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing has proudly served the residents of Oakland County, Michigan and surrounding area since 1929. Your comfort and complete satisfaction with the products and services we offer are what drives Kotz to be the best for you. We know you have choices when it comes to your home comfort needs. For professionalism and comfort you can count on, count on Kotz!
Because we care, Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing wants to keep you informed when changes are ahead in the HVAC industry that affect your heating and cooling. In the near future, industry standards regarding refrigerants are changing once again. Here, Kotz will briefly explain what the changes are and how they impact you.
Introduction to Refrigerant Changes
Refrigerants are chemicals used in air conditioners to help cool down the air. However, many of the old refrigerants are harmful to our environment. Because of this, there are upcoming changes to the types of refrigerants that can be used. These changes are important for everyone to understand, especially if you own an air conditioner.
Why Are Refrigerant Changes Happening?
Environmental Impact
The main reason for these refrigerant changes is to protect the environment. Some old refrigerants, like R-22, have been found to damage the ozone layer. The ozone layer is like a shield around the Earth that protects us from the sun’s harmful rays. When this layer gets damaged, it can lead to more skin cancers and other health problems.
Global Warming
Another reason for these changes is global warming. Some refrigerants contribute to the greenhouse effect, which makes the Earth’s climate warmer. New refrigerants are designed to be more environmentally friendly, reducing their impact on global warming.
What Are the New Refrigerants?
Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)
One of the new types of refrigerants is called HFCs, or hydrofluorocarbons. These are less harmful to the ozone layer than older refrigerants. However, they still have some impact on global warming, so scientists are always looking for even better alternatives.
Hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs)
HFOs, or hydrofluoroolefins, are another type of new refrigerant. These are much better for the environment because they have a very low impact on global warming. HFOs are becoming more popular and are expected to be used more in the future.
How Will These Changes Affect You?
Homeowners
If you have an older air conditioner or refrigerator that uses the old refrigerants, you’ll eventually need to switch to a new model. This is because it will become harder to find the old refrigerants, and they will also become more expensive. Newer HVAC systems that use the new refrigerants are more energy-efficient, which can save you money on your energy bills.
What Can You Do to Prepare?
Check Your Appliances
First, check if your air conditioner uses old refrigerants like R-22. You can usually find this information on a label inside the appliance. If it does, start planning now to replace it with a newer model that uses environmentally friendly refrigerants.
Stay Informed
Keep up-to-date with the latest information about refrigerant changes. There are many resources online where you can learn more about these changes and how they will affect you. Being informed will help you make the best decisions for your home or business.
Talk to Professionals
If you’re not sure what to do, call Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. Our trained HVAC technicians can give you advice on how to prepare for these refrigerant changes. If you’re interested in replacing your current HVAC system with a newer, more efficient model, they can help with that, too. A Kotz Comfort Specialist will evaluate your home’s layout and design. They will offer solutions that will best meet your cooling needs and budget.
Trusted HVAC Company in Waterford, MI
The upcoming refrigerant changes are important for protecting our environment and reducing global warming. By understanding why these changes are happening and what new refrigerants will be used, you can be better prepared. Staying informed and talking to professionals can also help you make the best choices.
Schedule your AC repair, HVAC maintenance, or new system installation today with the professionals at Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing.
