What To Consider Before Replacing Your R22-Based Equipment

    Today, many manufacturers in the US are no longer producing R22, leading to high demand and skyrocketing costs of purchasing it. This follows a phase-out deadline of the year 2020. Buying new equipment is now expensive and unplanned for a while those with older cooling systems find it difficult to repair and service them.

    Fortunately, some companies have come up with alternative solutions to R22 including total and partial system replacements and the use of “drop-in” refrigerants. But which of these is the the most cost effective R22 solution? The following tips could help answer this question.

    Recycle R22?

    Using recycled R22 may seem to be an easy way of extending an old system’s lifespan. However, apart from being illegal, the cost of the coolant is rising, and so is that of the recycled product. Therefore, in the long-run, this is not going to be a cost-effective solution.

    “Drop-In” Refrigerants

    “Drop-in” or substitute refrigerants are designed to perform in the same way that R22 does in old systems. However, they do not negatively impact the environment. The only requirement is to incur some costs for engineers to modify the system. Nonetheless, it is a cheap solution, and it causes less disruption to the building.

    Using this strategy, however, reduces the reliability and performance of systems, and risks breaking them down. Also, maintaining aging equipment becomes more and more expensive. In fact, many manufacturers do not advocate using alternative refrigerants because of the complications they cause.

    Old R22 systems are utmost 40% less energy efficient than new ones, so operating them means higher running costs. Also, as they become obsolete, finding replacement parts for them is becoming more difficult. In the long-run, it may be impossible to maintain such systems.

    Although the use of “drop-in” refrigerants is one of the cheapestr22 solutions, it is expensive in the long-term because it only reduces immediate spending. Moreover, it is risky and should only be a short-term measure as owners seek more permanent solutions. Otherwise, where possible, avoid it.

    Outdoor And Indoor Units Replacement

    This is where manufacturers install modern conditioning units into owners’ existing infrastructure. The strategy reuses materials like pipe work, power supply, and wiring. The pipe work is R22-free after the installation. Sometimes, only the replacement of outdoor units is necessary.

    Partial replacements minimize installation costs and time. They also provide opportunities for upgrading and expanding the capacity of existing systems. Moreover, they improve energy efficiency, performance, and running costs of equipment. Partial replacement is very cost-effective but not like the following solution.

    Total Replacements

    This is where engineers replace all parts of cooling systems including pipework, indoor and outdoor units, and electrical wiring. In cases where the available equipment is completely aged or damaged, the only option is to replace all parts. Some people also have what it takes to do this even if alternatives are available.

    For businesses where cooling is critical, older equipment may not meet the needs and expectations of staff members. Replacing old R22-based equipment with new systems could help, resulting in more comfortable environments where occupants’ productivity is high.

    Although it requires high initial capital investments, complete system replacement is worth the cost. The result is up-to-date equipment that has minimal running costs because of excellent and unmatched energy efficiency. Total replacement is the most cost-effective and long-term solution to the phase-out of R22.

    How It Works

    Experienced field surveyors visit sites where the R22-based equipment is to do assessments. After this, they write a detailed report featuring problem areas, possible solutions, and the best recommendation. Considering the experts’ opinion, owners could then choose the most cost-effective option.

    According to the owner’s choice, the company’s experts could then go and do the actual work. They could replace the whole or part of the system’s units or aid in installing “drop-in” refrigerants according to the owner’s preferences. They usually complete the work quickly.

    Choosing The Right Company

    Making decisions on replacing R22-based equipment with cost-effective strategies is not simple for owners. It is very technical and requires professional input just as the actual replacement procedure does. Therefore, owners of these old systems should contact experts to help them choose right.

    However, no one wants to receive the wrong advice or be a victim of exploitation. Therefore, doing extensive research could aid in getting professionals who would offer perfect and affordable services. Calling experts for inquiries on R22 replacements could also answer some questions that owners have.

     

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