Prior to 2010, most air conditioning units used R-22, or Freon, as the refrigerant. While this product worked well and helped keep homeowners comfortable in their houses, the environmental impact of R-22 refrigerant led manufacturers to develop an improved refrigerant. R-410A, or Puron, was patented in 1991 and is now the preferred coolant for home air conditioning units due to its improved efficiency and lower potential for harmful emissions.
Air conditioners that use Puron are less likely to need Cooling Services other than annual maintenance than older, Freon-based units. One of the main reasons is that Puron systems run cooler. They are less likely to overheat and cause damage to the internal components than a system that runs on Freon.
Another advantage of purchasing a new, Puron-based air conditioner is the lubricants used in the condenser are synthetic. Unlike the mineral oil used on older air conditioners, this synthetic lubricant is less corrosive and can extend the life of your equipment. Most technicians apply a lubricant to the moving parts of the condenser during annual Cooling Service. If you use your system a lot, and don’t reapply the mineral oil, the wear and tear can cause your equipment to break down more frequently.
Homeowners who keep their old air conditioners until they cost more to repair than to replace may find that the cost of annual maintenance increases every year. Many plants that used to make Freon have converted to Puron. Because less Freon is available, it will become more expensive. With the reduced efficiency of older equipment and the higher costs to maintain the system, many homeowners are considering upgrading their air conditioning.
Whether your old air conditioning equipment is near the end of its life-span or you want to enjoy the benefits of a Puron-based system before your current equipment breaks down, contact an experienced HVAC contractor such as E and Q Heating and Cooling. Your contractor can help you choose the most efficient equipment for your home. With the improved efficiency you’ll get from a new air conditioning unit, you should see a significant drop in your summer energy bills right away.
