R-22 also known as FREON, was for years, the most common refrigerant used in air conditioning systems. R-22 is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon ( HCFC ) that contains chlorine which has been linked to the depletion of the Earth’s ozone layer.
Because of this property in particular, R-22 is being phased out in accordance with the International Treaty, the Montreal Protocol and the Environmental Protection Agency in the United States.
Manufacturing of systems using R-22 , has been prohibited since 2010. The production of R-22 itself, will cease by 2020. The EPA has recognized R-410a, also known as PURON, as the refrigerant of the future. Not only is R-410a ozone friendly, it is also more economical.
Is this the only refrigerant that will be on the market in years to come? Most likely not…..manufacturers are always looking for ways to improve existing products, not only environmentally, but economically as well.