2-10 Home Buyers Warranty®

EPA Plan

Between 2010 and 2030, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will phase out the country's consumption of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which are known to deplete the ozone layer. Specifically, the agency will target HCFC-22, which is also referred to as R-22 or Freon®. This popular refrigerant is commonly used in refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment, especially in residential air conditioners.

The plan goes into effect January 1, 2010. At that time, manufacturers may no longer produce air conditioning systems that use R-22 refrigerant. Residential air conditioning systems manufactured after January 1, 2010 will now use R-410A refrigerant exclusively. R-410A equipment has been available for purchase for several years.

Schedule for R-22 and R-142b Phase Out

R-22 (or HCFC-22) is often used in air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment. R-142b (or HCFC-142b) is also used as a refrigerant, often as a component of a blend, and is sometimes used for foam blowing or as a propellant in aerosol cans. These two HCFCs are being phased out according to the following schedule:

  • January 1, 2010

    Ban on production and import of R-22 and R-142b except for ongoing servicing needs on existing equipment

  • January 1, 2015

    Ban on sale and use of R-22 and R-142b except for certain uses, including ongoing servicing needs on existing refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment

  • January 1, 2020

    Ban on remaining production and import of R-22 and R-142b

  • After 2020

    The servicing of systems that use R-22 or R-142b will rely on recovered or stockpiled quantities. It is difficult to predict when these supplies will run out. Supplies may be available until almost all equipment containing R-22 or R-142b is retired. However, in the future, supplies will be more limited and costs of HCFCs will likely rise.

* Certain additional exemptions apply, including exemptions for (1) HCFCs used in processes resulting in their transformation or destruction, or (2) pre-authorized import of HCFCs that are recovered and either recycled or reclaimed.