The short answer
R-22 is no longer produced in the U.S., so old R-22 systems are costly to recharge. R-410A, used in most systems installed in the last two decades, is being phased down, and under federal rules that took effect in 2025 new home air conditioners and heat pumps moved to lower-impact refrigerants such as R-454B and R-32. Existing R-410A systems can still be repaired.
Why refrigerants keep changing
Refrigerants that escape into the air harm the atmosphere. R-22 depleted the ozone layer and was phased out under the Clean Air Act. Its replacement, R-410A, does not harm ozone but has a high global warming potential. The American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act of 2020 directs the EPA to phase down that class of refrigerants (HFCs) and move new equipment to alternatives.
If your system uses R-22
Systems installed before about 2010 often use R-22. New R-22 production and import ended in 2020, so service relies on recovered and recycled supply, which is limited and expensive. If an R-22 system has a significant leak, most homeowners are better off pricing a replacement before paying for a recharge. Check the label on the outdoor unit for the refrigerant type.
If your system uses R-410A
You do not need to replace a working R-410A system. It can still be serviced and recharged, and R-410A remains available for repairs, although prices may rise as supply is phased down. A leak is still worth fixing properly rather than topping up.
The new A2L refrigerants
Most new home systems now use R-454B or R-32. These are classed A2L: lower toxicity and mildly flammable. Equipment designed for them includes safety measures, and some configurations add refrigerant leak sensors. Installers need training and tools suited to A2L refrigerants. Your existing indoor coil or line set may not be compatible with a new A2L outdoor unit, so a replacement quote should say what is being reused and why that is allowed.
Repair or replace when refrigerant is involved
- R-22 system with a leak: get replacement prices first.
- R-410A system with a findable, repairable leak: repair is often reasonable, especially if the system is mid-life.
- Ask for the leak location, the repair, and whether the system will be pressure-tested after repair.
- Be wary of repeat “top-ups” with no leak search.
Who may handle refrigerant
Under federal law, only technicians with EPA Section 608 certification may buy and handle refrigerant for these systems, and refrigerant must be recovered rather than vented. Ask any company you hire.
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Questions
Can I still get R-22 refrigerant?
Only from recovered and recycled supply, since new production ended in 2020. It is limited and expensive, which is why many R-22 systems are replaced when they develop a leak.
Do I have to replace my R-410A air conditioner?
No. Existing R-410A systems can continue to be used, serviced and recharged.
What is R-454B?
A lower-impact refrigerant used in many new home air conditioners and heat pumps. It is classed A2L, meaning mildly flammable, and equipment is designed with that in mind.
Can a new outdoor unit use my old indoor coil?
Not always. Coils and line sets must be compatible with the refrigerant and matched to the outdoor unit for the rating and warranty to apply. Ask the installer to put this in writing.
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Updated October 2026 by the Heating and Cooling editorial team. General information for homeowners, not professional advice – rules and equipment differ. When gas, carbon monoxide, electricity or anyone’s safety is involved, call 911 or your utility. How we write our guides · HVAC glossary