R410A vs. R22 in Window and Portable Air Conditioners- Does It Matter?

When researching window and portable air conditioners, consumers may notice that some models list the refrigerant as R22, while others say R410A. Most seem to take no notice of the difference, but there are a few reasons why one will want to look for models that use R410A.

What's the Difference?

R22 is an older refrigerant that has been widely used in many types of refrigeration systems for years. It's ozone depleting characteristics are well known. When R22 leaks or is released, it releases hydrofluorocarbons, or HFC's, a type of organic compound that damages the earth's ozone layer. Because of this, the United States government and the European Union decided to require manufacturers to stop producing R22 by 2010, so it is no longer being produced under the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Standards, or ROHS. It still exists, but as supplies dwindle, it will become more difficult to replace in R22 based systems, and those systems will become obsolete.

This doesn't mean that such systems need to be replaced now. If an R22 system is functioning properly, it's probably best to continue using it until it needs to be replaced. But if you plan to buy a new window or portable air conditioner and use it more than just a few years, it is probably not a good idea to buy one that is R22 based. Recharging it will become more difficult and eventually impossible. R22 units are still on the market, but they are basically leftover models from 2010 and prior.

On the other hand, R410A has several real advantages over R22. It is safe for the ozone layer, because it does not give off HFC's. But this is not the only improvement. R410A is actually a more efficient refrigerant than R22, transferring heat more easily. This allows air conditioners to run at lower temperatures while achieving the same cooling, with much less risk of damage from overheating. Another improvement is in the lubricant. Refrigerants require lubrication to keep moving parts working properly. R22 used a mineral oil lubricant, whereas R410A uses a newer synthetic lubricant. The new type of lubricant mixes better with the R410A, allowing more efficient performance and longer service life for the unit.

Can They Be Switched Out?

So why can't one just switch refrigerants? Well, they are not interchangeable. R410A systems have a completely new design based on the physical and functional properties of this refrigerant. R410A operates at higher pressures than R22, so putting the new refrigerant in a system not designed for these pressures will create a dangerous condition. This also means that the old servicing tools won't fit a new system, and one will want to make sure any technician who works on an R410A system is certified to do so.

The new laws currently in place prohibit the sale of air conditioners with R22 manufactured after 2010.  So, at www.portablehomeair.com, the air conditioners we carry use R410A.  However, there still may be a few units out there manufactured earlier that still have R22.  So look for the refrigerant of the present and future and choose the unit that best suits your needs, with the knowledge that it won't become obsolete any time soon!