ph
ph

A/C Refrigerant: What’s the Difference Between R-22 and R-410A?

Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your A/C system and the compressor the lifeblood is the heart. To understand the difference between R-22 and R-410A, you have to realize that your A/C system works by cycling the refrigerant through several heat exchanges, much like your refrigerator does.

a/c refigerant

The Basics

The hydro-chlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) refrigerant R-22 was common in air conditioners prior to 2010, but has been banned in new air conditioners as of 2010, as part of the Montreal Protocol for protecting against further damage to the ozone layer. R-22 units use mineral oil to lubricate the compressor.

The HCF refrigerant R-410A is approved for use in newly manufactured A/C units and is becoming the new standard in the A/C industry. R-410A can operate at higher pressure than R-22, and as a result, can take in and expel more heat than its predecessor. R-410A compressors use a synthetic oil for lubrication that mixes more completely with R-410A than mineral oil does with R-22, which means there's less wear to the compressor during operation. All of these factors are making the new generation of A/Cs more durable and energy efficient than before.

Charging A/C Systems

While no new R-22 units are being produced, there are older A/C systems installed that use the refrigerant. Never try to mix the two refrigerants. The difference between R-22 and R-410A means mixing can cause a safety hazard. Don't put R-410A into a compressor built for R-22. It isn't built for the increased pressure and will crack and break.

For more information on A/C refrigerant and the difference between R-22  and R-410A systems, contact Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning. We've proudly served the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts since 1926.

Image via Shutterstock.com

Nice people.

Great service.

Since 1928

Contact Rodenhiser

By submitting, you authorize Rodenhiser to contact you via phone, email or text to gather project information including any future ongoing communication. The personal information entered above will never be shared with any third party for marketing purposes. You may opt out of this communication at any time. By submitting this form you are not obligated to purchase. Message/data rates apply.
Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy

Read From Over 10000 Happy Customers

  • Both Alex and Patrick were knowledgeable, courteous, and professional. They made a change that might have solved the recent problem and have structured a more complete solution. We agreed to this...
    5 Stars rated.

  • Mike was thorough, thoughtful and considerate. Covered their shoes before entering, surveyed my issue and provided an explanation of the services and costs. Great Job!
    5 Stars rated.

  • Alex did a great job providing an explanation of the services provided and went out of his way to offer assistance/advice on other issues outside of our scheduled maintenance visit.
    5 Stars rated.

  • Brian did an excellent job inspecting our 18-year old boiler and replacing some of the accessory hardware that needed it, he also adjusted the outgoing hot water settings for our radiators and...
    5 Stars rated.

  • Rodenhiser is my one stop shop!!! They take care of my HVAC, electrical, and plumbing issues & are always helpful addressing any questions I may have about the systems in my house! Everyone...
    5 Stars rated.

  • Chris G. and Nick V. showed up bright and early at 8am to fix my water heater issue. They were on time, polite and were able to fix an issue that has been plaguing my house for a good year. They...
    5 Stars rated.

You Can Depend On Rodenhiser

Call Rodenhiser at
1-800-462-9710

You Can Depend On Rodenhiser

Call Rodenhiser at 1-800-462-9710

When you are looking for plumbing, electrical, heating or air conditioning in the Route 495 / 128 area, you will be delighted that you called Massachusetts' trusted choice since 1928.

With a total dedication to professional workmanship and excellent service, discover why families and businesses continue to trust Rodenhiser after generations of service

Same Day Service
"Nice people... Great service"®

Trusted Plumbers

When you choose Rodenhiser your satisfaction is guaranteed—all the work will be completed to your satisfaction

Fast, On Time

Our teams are available for emergencies. At your location FAST.

HVAC Experts

Your new heating or air conditioning system will be installed on-time by our clearn, tidy, and polite technicians.

Satisfaction Guaranteed

It’s the ultimate assurance of the great service you receive when you call Rodenhiser.

Expert Electricians

Rodenhiser can help with all of your electrical needs, from electrical panels to standby generators.

Maintenance Plans

Avoid costly plumbing, heating, A/C and electrical problems and repairs by scheduling regular check-ups and service.

Special Financing with Rodenhiser

APPLY ONLINE
for Financing Through Wells Fargo

MULTIPLE OPTIONS AVAILABLE.
*With Approved Credit. Terms and Conditions Apply.

CONTACT RODENHISER TODAY