Not many people have heard of R-22 or Freon. It’s the substance used in many older HVAC systems that helps your unit produce nice, cool air. However, R-22 has been known to affect the Earth’s ozone layer negatively. This has resulted in the Environmental Protection Agency mandating that R-22 no longer be produced as of January 1, 2020. This gradual reduction of R-22 has been ongoing for the past 30 years; however, the next step is ending its production entirely.

So, what does this mean for you and your commercial building? If your building or HVAC system is on the older side, it may be using R-22 right now. This means you need to start thinking about AC replacement sooner rather than later.

Sound stressful? This is where AFGO comes in. We can help you navigate the AC replacement procedure and make sure your building is entirely R-22 compliant.

Call (718) 478-5555 or contact AFGO online today to speak to one of our team members about R-22 conversion in the NYC area.

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Drop-In Refrigerant vs. Full AC Replacement

Many of our clients ask about drop-in retrofits of their current R-22 systems because transitioning from earlier refrigerants to R-22 was a simple drop-in process. While it is possible to retrofit your R-22 system to work with some modern refrigerant blends, we do not recommend this solution because R-22 has not been produced or imported since 2020.

Using a drop-in refrigerant could also degrade your air conditioner, resulting in oil incompatibilities and the need for more extensive retrofitting than the term “drop-in” suggests. Even if you don’t feel you need a new system yet — any R-22 systems you could retrofit are over a decade old.

Ultimately, it is a better investment to opt for a full replacement. A cutting-edge system that uses R-410A will offer superior efficiency and help avoid complicated repairs common to R-22 systems.

To learn more about HVAC retrofits versus replacements, reach out to AFGO by calling 718-478-5555 today.

What You Should Know About R-410A

As the production of Freon comes to an end and conversions become a necessity for older systems, many business owners question what difference they’ll see with its replacement, R-410A. Also known as Puron, R-410A is a hydro-fluorocarbon, unlike the hydro-chlorofluorocarbon Freon. This means that Puron does not damage the ozone layer — but the change doesn’t just benefit the environment.

Puron absorbs and releases heat more efficiently than Freon, tolerates higher pressures, and uses synthetic oils instead of mineral oil for lubrication. These differences mean that a unit using Puron will run more efficiently and with fewer problems, though you won’t be able to take full advantage of these benefits in a converted unit built for Freon.

How Does R-22 Conversion Affect My Business?

Can you remember the last time you had your AC replaced? If it was less than nine years ago, it does not use R-22 coolant, as that is when manufacturers stopped putting it in modern systems. However, if you think your system is more than 9 years old, you need to replace your building’s AC.

Not only has the cost of R-22 significantly increased because it is becoming rarer but having an older system also increases the chance of a dangerous R-22 leak. Therefore, replacing your R-22 system can pose numerous extra benefits beyond simply allowing your building to comply with the law.

While new systems are certainly more expensive than older systems, they’re also much more energy-efficient, so they’ll save you a lot more money on your energy bill at the end of the month. They’ll also operate much more quietly and be better for the environment overall.

AFGO Mechanical is the place to turn to for your AC replacement needs. We can help you assess your current system, pick out a new one right for you, and get you set up with proper installation and a custom-tailored routine maintenance program.

Need help with your AC replacement needs? That’s why AFGO’s here. Call (718) 478-5555 or contact us online now.

Healthcare Facility Refrigeration Services in NYC

AFGO provides the comprehensive refrigeration services hospitals and medical facilities need to remain in compliance with best practices. Whether you require repairs, replacement, installation, or maintenance, our team can address your refrigeration concerns to help you prepare for the coming healthcare service influx.

Contact our team to schedule refrigeration services for your hospital today.

Choose AFGO Mechanical for Your AC Replacement Needs

Choosing a new AC can be hard ― and stressful! The team at AFGO is professionally trained to analyze your current building and help you pick the system that is right for you. Our technicians will proudly deliver you the best possible service alongside the best possible products. If you’re in the Manhattan, Brooklyn, Bronx, or Brooklyn area, choose AFGO Mechanical for your HVAC replacement needs and to get prepared for the incoming R-22 conversion.

Ready to get prepped for the R-22 conversion? Call (718) 478-5555 or contact AFGO online today for AC replacement service.

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