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R22 Phase Out

The gradual phase out of R22 was completed on 1st January 2015. If you want some more information about the R22 phase out and ban, then please scroll through our FAQs or use the titles below as a shortcut.

Alternatively, contact us any time and ask us any questions you have directly.


What is R22?

R22 is one of a group of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) that are used as a refrigerant in some older air conditioning systems. If your system is around ten years old or more, then the chances are you’ll be running on this type of refrigerant.


Why is R22 Being Phased Out?

Through a series of chemical reactions in the upper atmosphere, HCFCs like R22 are known to deplete ozone, a gas that forms part of the protective layer around the planet, notably over Antartica. This in turn has various environmental and biological effects.

The observation of these effects led to a voluntary agreement between world leaders to reduce the release of these harmful gases (called the Montreal Protocol). Over a number of years, and in stages that give industried plenty of time to adapt, they are being phased out in favour of less harmful alternatives.


Is R22 Legal?

The R22 phase out has happened in gradual steps to allow everyone time to replace their systems, starting with making ‘virgin’ R22 use illegal. Since January 2015:

  • You cannot install a new system that runs on HCFC gas, nor can you maintain an old system if it involves breaking into the refrigerant circuits.
  • You cannot top up your existing systems with any type of R22, although you can continue to run your old system without refreshing the refrigerant.

ls My System Illegal?

You can choose to continue to run your system, however, you cannot legally top up the refrigerant unless you have it converted to accept a substitute. With this in mind, you may want to consider replacement.


Do I need to remove R22 from my equipment?

A system that runs on R22 may still legally operate despite the ban. However, it is not be legal to add R22 of any kind to it – reclaimed, ‘virgin’ or otherwise.

Legally, then, you do not ‘need’ to remove it from your AC equipment. However, the potential to be stuck without air conditioning if your system breaks, means you may want to consider changing it sooner rather than later.


Should I Replace My R22 System?

If you want to leave your current system in place then you may. It is also possible to convert your existing system to accept a new refrigerant type. There are several factors to bear in mind when considering your R22 replacement options, however:

  • If your system breaks, you will not be able to replace the R22.
  • This could be a disaster if your industry relies on climate control systems, such as in your server room, large office or hot kitchen. In these cases, it might be better to invest in a new system.
  • Converted systems are usually less efficient than a new system, and can be around half as effective. This will push up your energy consumption, increasing your bills and affecting any environmental targets you may have.

How Do I Know Which Is Best?

Depending on your system, it could be that conversion or total replacement could be the best options for you. There are a lot of cost, environmental and convenience factors to consider.

Talk to our experts to get an opinion that takes the circumstances of your business and building into consideration.

Our Services

Air Conditioning Installation

Total Environmental Kooling are an established independent mechanical and electrical contracting company in Bristol offering a complete design, supply and installation service for air conditioning, climate control systems, ventilation and heat pumps.

Air Conditioning Maintenance and Servicing

We have an excellent maintenance team and provide full back up to all industrial and commercial clients including emergency air conditioning and climate control repairs, servicing, fault finding and regular planned maintenance visits.

R22 Replacement

Total Environmental Kooling carry out R22 site surveys and design and install R22 replacement solutions, in order to meet the ban on R22 refrigerant that was introduced in January 2015. We have the answers to your common queries on the legal requirements and implications on your business on our FAQ R22 page.

Bespoke Systems, Close Control, CMM, Thermal Rooms and Cleanrooms

We have extensive experience of designing and building Close Control, Cleanroom, Thermal rooms and CMM room facilities to very tight temperature and humidity control for many blue chip plc clients, including Rolls Royce plc and Renishaw plc. We can also improve existing facilities and retro fit systems to meet client requirements. We have carried out these projects in Bristol and Gloucester, the UK and worldwide.

Heating Systems

Total Environment Kooling Ltd provides services throughout the UK and overseas. We design, install, service and maintain systems for domestic, commercial and industrial sector.