Can You Still Repair an R-22 AC System? Here’s What to Know

If your home is cooled by an older air conditioning system, there’s a good chance it uses R-22 refrigerant—commonly known as Freon. You’ve probably heard about changes to regulations and may be wondering: Can you still repair an R-22 AC system? The short answer is yes, in many cases you can—but it’s not always the best option. At Texas Air Authorities, we want to help you understand your options so you can make the best decision for your comfort, budget, and long-term needs.

What is R-22, and Why Is It a Concern?

R-22 is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) that was commonly used in residential and commercial air conditioners for decades. However, due to its harmful impact on the ozone layer, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began phasing out R-22 in the United States.

As of January 1, 2020, the production and import of R-22 have been completely banned. While it’s still legal to use existing systems that rely on R-22, getting the refrigerant has become more difficult—and expensive—because it can only be sourced from recycled or reclaimed supplies.

Can You Still Repair an R-22 AC System?

In most cases, yes, you can still repair an R-22 system—but with some important caveats:

1. Minor repairs such as electrical issues, fan motor replacements, and thermostat problems can often be resolved without touching the refrigerant system.
2. If the repair involves recharging the refrigerant, it can become costly. Since R-22 is no longer produced, the price for even a small amount has risen significantly.
3. If your system has a leak, repairs can be technically done, but they may not be cost-effective when factoring in the price of R-22 and the age of your unit. 

Is It Worth Repairing?

If your R-22 system is more than 10–15 years old, you’re likely better off considering a replacement. Here’s why:

1. Efficiency: New systems are much more energy-efficient, which means lower utility bills.
2. Environmental responsibility: Newer systems use R-410A or other more environmentally friendly refrigerants.
3. Warranty and reliability: Modern HVAC units come with warranties and offer more reliable, long-term comfort.
4. Value for money: The money spent on patching up an aging R-22 system might be better invested in a modern, energy-efficient unit that won’t need banned refrigerants. 

At Texas Air Authorities, we always aim to provide honest, clear advice. If a simple, low-cost repair can keep your system running safely for another season, we’ll tell you. If we believe replacement is a better investment, we’ll help you understand your options with free estimates and same-day quotes—no pressure, no gimmicks.

What Are My Replacement Options?

If you’re ready to move away from an R-22 system, you have a few options:

1. Replace the entire system – This is the most common and future-proof solution. New systems using R-410A or R-32 are more efficient and environmentally responsible.
2. Retrofit your existing system – In rare cases, some older systems can be retrofitted to work with a new refrigerant. However, this isn’t always reliable or recommended. 

Our NATE-certified technicians at Texas Air Authorities can walk you through the pros and cons of each option. We work with trusted brands like Lennox, Trane, and Goodman to provide reliable, high-quality replacements with a 1-year warranty on all new equipment.

Conclusion

Don’t let refrigerant confusion leave you sweating. If you’re unsure whether to repair or replace your R-22 AC system, give Texas Air Authorities a call. We offer same-day service and always respond promptly because your comfort can’t wait. We proudly serve communities across Tarrant County, including Arlington, Fort Worth, Mansfield, Euless, and beyond. Let our local, family-owned team help you make a wise decision you’ll never regret. Need help now? Call Texas Air Authorities for fast, honest, and professional HVAC service you can trust.