R22 phase-out deadline is now fast approaching

As from the start of 2015, the maintenance or repair of any air conditioning system using R22 refrigerant gas will become illegal as part of legislation outlined in the EC Ozone Regulations. The imminent ban on this chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) gas thus poses a very real threat to companies whose cooling equipment still uses ozone-depleting R22.

Despite service activities on this equipment being outlawed as from the new year, R22 remains one of the most common refrigerants in the UK, widely used in older chillers and air conditioning. Businesses will therefore be compelled to source more environmentally-friendly alternatives. Numerous companies are likely to be affected by the change, many of which are currently unaware of the implications.

With the new guidelines set to be introduced imminently, now is the time to seek a modern replacement. Modern equipment using refrigerants such as R410A  is up to 60% more  energy-efficient than the now obsolete R22, meaning   it can commonly pay for  itself in  reduced energy costs within three or four years of a switchover.

If your building or process is still using R22-based air conditioning equipment then substituting it for a more environmentally responsible alternative is in most cases, and perhaps surprisingly, cheaper than maintaining what you currently have.

An up-to-date system equipped with the latest technology is also far less likely to break down and cause you to suffer unspecified periods of downtime. As a further incentive to switch, the government-backed Enhanced Capital Allowance Scheme, allows any company replacing an R22 system with a more efficient model to offset the entire cost of its  installation against taxable  profits.

So if you are a building owner or facilities manager  worried about meeting your obligations, call Andrews Air Conditioning Services on 0800 831 8833 for free, professional advice. Our industry experts will help you develop a suitable R22 replacement plan and ensure you are fully compliant with new regulations.