Refrigerant

Refrigerant is the chemical compound in your air conditioner or heat pump that absorbs and releases heat to cool your home. Different systems use different refrigerant types, and older units may require costly or phased-out options like R-22. Understanding your refrigerant needs helps you plan for recharges, repairs, or system upgrades. Angi helps you connect with licensed local HVAC pros who can diagnose issues and keep your system running efficiently.

Related to Refrigerant Service

Refrigerant Service Articles and Advice
Elisa Greenberg  •  Apr 10, 2026
Are Refrigerant Leaks Dangerous?
If your AC unit isn’t functioning properly, you might have a refrigerant leak. Our guide will show you why refrigerant leaks are dangerous.
Allie Ogletree  •  Apr 10, 2026
What Is R-410A Refrigerant and How Does It Compare to R-22?
Looking for a new R410A ac unit to keep cool? Here’s what you need to know about how R-410A works and if it’s the best refrigerant for your HVAC system.
Brionna Farney  •  Apr 10, 2026
How to Add Freon to an AC Unit: A Step-by-Step Guide
Learn how to add Freon to your AC unit with our step-by-step guide, and keep your home cool with a properly functioning AC unit.
Alison Kasch  •  Apr 10, 2026
5 Types of Refrigerant for AC Systems
There are a few different types of refrigerant for AC systems, but some contain environmental hazards. Learn about the five main types of refrigerant.
Mariel Loveland  •  Apr 5, 2026
What Is Freon? Everything You Should Know About the Refrigerant
What is Freon? The EPA is phasing out this refrigerant, but you still might find it in an old fridge or AC. Here’s what you need to know.
Paige Bennett  •  Apr 5, 2026
6 Signs You May Have an AC Coolant Leak and Tips to Prevent It
Think you have an AC coolant leak? Check out six telltale signs that something is up with the coolant in your system and tips to prevent it in the future.
Elisa Greenberg  •  Apr 4, 2026
How Much Does AC Recharge Cost? [2026 Data]
If your air conditioning unit isn’t functioning properly, you might need an AC recharge. Our guide will detail what a typical AC recharge cost looks like.
Kat Brancato  •  Mar 19, 2026
7 Fool-Proof Ways for Detecting Refrigerant Leaks and Keeping Your House Cool
Your HVAC unit needs refrigerant to keep your house cool, and a leak can lead to serious problems. Use these tips to detect a refrigerant leak.
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Common Refrigerant Service Questions

No, you should not use R-410A refrigerant in an AC system built for R-22. Due to significant differences in operating pressures and chemical composition, adding R-410A to an R-22 unit is not safe or effective and can cause severe damage, potentially breaking the unit. As of 2010, newly manufactured home AC units no longer use R-22 Freon, and since 2020, the import and manufacture of R-22 have been phased out in the US. If your AC unit was made after 2010, it likely uses R-410A. For older systems, it is best to consult a licensed AC repair specialist to determine the appropriate solution, which may involve updating or replacing the unit.

R-22 refrigerant is still available but expect higher costs. Since R-22 refrigerant is an ozone-depleting substance (ODS), the EPA only allows certified technicians to purchase it. Therefore, homeowners cannot purchase it directly, and you’ll have to go through your HVAC specialist if you have an air-conditioning system from before 2010 that runs on R-22.

Due to its high global warming potential (GWP), R-410A refrigerant is being phased out, much like it previously replaced R-22. The new, preferred replacements are R-32 and R-454B. This new class of refrigerants offers lower GWP and higher efficiency. Specifically, R-32 can reduce electricity consumption by up to 10% and is a safer alternative for the ozone layer. It is critical to never mix different types of refrigerants, as this can cause severe damage to your AC unit. If your HVAC system uses a refrigerant that is being phased out, consult a professional about transitioning to a recommended compound.

It can be difficult to determine the cause of a coolant leak unless you have the unit inspected by a certified professional. Most coolant leaks are caused by wear and tear on seals and joints. This typically happens five years after a unit is installed. Additionally, faulty or worn compressors, evaporator coils, and condenser coils can also cause leaks.

Yes, technicians check refrigerant levels, loop performance, and system calibration for peak efficiency.