While it is still legal to operate an air conditioner that uses R22, the production and import of new R22 was completely banned in the U.S. on January 1, 2020. Any R22 used today must come from existing stockpiles or be "reclaimed" (recovered and recycled) from older units. Key Facts for Homeowners
: You cannot simply put a newer refrigerant like R410A into an R22 system; the different pressures will likely cause immediate and severe equipment damage. Your Options in 2026 can i still buy r22 refrigerant
: A licensed technician can still find reclaimed R22 to refill your system. However, if your system has a leak, the expensive new gas will likely just leak out again shortly. While it is still legal to operate an
What is R22 Refrigerant? | Phase-Out & Replacement Guide - Bryant Key Facts for Homeowners : You cannot simply
If your older unit is leaking or needs more refrigerant, you generally have three paths: