Refrigerant Guide
R-22 — EPA Regulations, Phase-Out Schedule & Alternatives
Last updated: April 2026
Researched by the RefrigerantTrack Research Team
Overview
Full Name
HCFC-22 (Chlorodifluoromethane)
Chemical Formula
CHClF₂
Global Warming Potential (GWP)
1,810
Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP)
0.055
Ozone Depleting Substance
Yes — Class II ODS
Phase-Out Status
Phased Out
Effective: January 1, 2020
Phase-Out Status
Production and import banned as of January 1, 2020.
R-22 can no longer be produced or imported for use as a refrigerant in the United States. Existing systems may still be serviced using reclaimed or recycled refrigerant, but supply is shrinking and costs are rising. Planning a retrofit or equipment replacement is strongly recommended.
Key Regulatory Facts
These facts are drawn from EPA regulations, the AIM Act, and Montreal Protocol obligations. Each is a standalone verifiable statement.
R-22 production and import for use as refrigerant was banned in the United States on January 1, 2020, under the Clean Air Act Section 605(a).
R-22 has a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 1,810 — meaning one pound of R-22 has the same warming impact as 1,810 pounds of CO₂ over 100 years.
R-22 has an Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) of 0.055, making it a Class II ozone-depleting substance regulated under the Montreal Protocol.
Reclaimed R-22 can still be legally used to service existing systems; however, the diminishing supply has driven wholesale prices above $40 per pound in many markets as of 2024.
Under EPA Section 608, R-22 systems containing 15 lbs or more of refrigerant (as of January 2026) must have their leak rates tracked and maintained below the applicable threshold.
EPA Section 608 Requirements
Systems containing 15 lbs or more of R-22 are subject to the following EPA requirements.
| Requirement | Value |
|---|---|
| Appliance charge threshold (leak tracking required at or above) | 15 lbs |
| Max annual leak rate — commercial refrigeration | 15% |
| Max annual leak rate — comfort cooling | 30% |
Thresholds reflect the January 1, 2026, EPA Section 608 rule change reducing the appliance charge threshold from 50 lbs to 15 lbs.
Common Uses
- Residential central air conditioning (pre-2010 systems)
- Commercial comfort cooling
- Heat pumps
- Refrigerated transport (legacy systems)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still use R-22 in my existing system?
Yes. While new production and import of R-22 for use as a refrigerant was banned on January 1, 2020, you can still legally use reclaimed or recycled R-22 to service existing equipment. The ban applies to manufacturing, not to continued operation. However, supply is shrinking and costs are rising, which makes retrofitting or replacing aging R-22 systems increasingly practical.
What is the best R-22 replacement refrigerant?
The best replacement depends on your system type and priorities. R-454B (Opteon XL41) is the leading low-GWP option for new equipment but requires system modifications for retrofit use. R-407C is a common drop-in retrofit refrigerant for R-22 systems and does not require compressor or oil changes in most cases. R-410A and R-32 require system redesign and are not retrofit options. Consult a certified HVAC technician before switching refrigerants.
How much does R-22 cost now that it is phased out?
Wholesale R-22 prices have risen significantly since the 2020 production ban. As of 2024, reclaimed R-22 commonly trades between $40 and $75 per pound at wholesale, compared to roughly $5 to $10 per pound before the phase-out. Retail service costs are higher. The shrinking supply is a major factor driving equipment replacement decisions.
Does my R-22 system require leak rate tracking?
Yes, if it contains 15 lbs or more of refrigerant. As of January 1, 2026, the EPA Section 608 appliance charge threshold dropped from 50 lbs to 15 lbs. Commercial refrigeration systems must maintain a leak rate below 15% annually; comfort cooling systems must stay below 30%. All R-22 systems meeting the charge threshold are subject to these requirements regardless of the refrigerant's phase-out status.
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