R22 Phase out: Is your company ready for the change?

Time is running out, the phase out programme for the production of R22 and other HCFC’s is drawing to a close and many companies are now facing a dilemma of how to address their air conditioning equipment still operating with R22 refrigerant.

Will this affect my business?
Studies have shown that HCFC’s have a detrimental effects on the ozone layer and the environment due to excessive UV levels. R22 is the most widely used HCFC in the industry and remains a very common refrigerant in existing air conditioning systems.Changes in EU Legislation for the removal and replacement of R22 will affect any company that has been using air conditioning or refrigeration systems for more than a few years.

When do these changes need to be made?
From the 1st January 2010 the use of virgin HCFC refrigerants will be banned with only recycled refrigerant legal to use. Recycled refrigerant will only be available until January 2015 when the use of HCFC refrigerants must cease.

The use of R22 as a “top up” fluid for maintenance will be banned between 2010 and 2015. Stock piling of virgin and reclaimed R22 will be illegal and users of R22 and other HCFC’s systems will need to consider alternative refrigerants or purchase new equipment.

What are the options?
The options fall into two areas:

1. Decommission the existing system and replace it with one which uses HFC refrigerant or an alternative which is permitted under legislation.
2. Carry out some system modifications and then change to an HFC refrigerant, commonly referred to as “drop in” replacements. In this case the existing refrigerant and oil will be removed and disposed of safely.
   

Selection of the best option needs careful consideration and will be influenced by each company’s circumstances. In most cases older and unreliable systems should be replaced but younger systems are suitable for modification.

Most replacement systems will attract tax breaks in the form of enhanced capital allowances, for more information log on to www.eca.gov.uk/etl.

The table below summarises the advantages and disadvantages of each option. It is recommended that you consult equipment manufacturers or installers, like the Four Seasons Group, who will provide all the relevant information necessary help you take the best course of action.

What can we offer?
Our skilled engineers are qualified to REFCOM standards for the handling and disposal of refrigerants and our experienced technical team can arrange a replacement/ modification programme to suit your business. We are already working on R22 replacement programmes with a number of our large clients. If you would like to find out more about what we can offer or would like to find out more information about this legislation, a member of staff will be more than happy to deal with your call.