What’s an Air Conditioning Dry Charge?

Over the past several years, both the U.S. and Canadian governments have mandated that all makers of air conditioning equipment phase out production of the refrigerant R-22 (Freon) or Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). These refrigerants have been commonly used in air conditioners and heat pumps for the last several decades. The recommended phase-out mandates are anticipated to have the HVAC industry shift to a more earth friendly refrigerant with a technical designation R410A. R410A has been verified to be safer for the environment. 

In late 2010 the majority of air conditioning producers began manufacturing Air Conditioning and Heat Pump units, without adding refrigerant at the factory. These units are more commonly called “dry charged units”. The units can legally be sold and installed then your local HVAC contractor (such as Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning) can charge the unit with R22. R22 is still legal for AC repair or service a while longer. The reason for these Dry Charged Units is to give the greater Fort Lauderdale area a more simple and cost effective replacement option for central air conditioners and heat pumps. However, these units also bypass the spirit of the mandates, which was to help the environment by introducing more environment friendly solutions. 

Fort Lauderdale homeowners should understand that these Dry Charged Units are approved in the U.S. and Canada. Because of some key ambiguities in the written policies, the entire outdoor unit is technically looked upon as a replacement “part”. These days, condensers or heat pumps intended for use in a replacement R-22 system are usually referred to as “Dry Charge” or “Nitrogen Charged” systems. Below are some Frequently Asked Questions about this recent A/C Dry Charge trend. 

Does it make sense to buy a Dry Charge Air Conditioning Unit? 

It depends on a number of things. The number one thing to do is learn what types of HVAC equipment the heating and air conditioning industry offers and seek solutions to address your personal comfort, efficiency and lifestyle needs. Take time to understand the benefits and difference between a dry charge unit and new air conditioning products with R-410A refrigerant. 

Top reasons for buying an R-410A system 

Current R-410A systems provide benefits to Fort Lauderdale homeowners that Dry Charge units do not. A sample of the benefits include: 

• Greater energy efficiency for comfort at a cost savings 
• Leading technology to lower humidity 
• Current production refrigerant solutions allowing longer life and extended availability of refrigerant 

• Expanded warranty periods for more peace of mind 
• Quieter operation for a more peaceful indoor environment 
• Eco friendly refrigerant for lower impact on the environment 
• Matched coil solutions for improved reliability and guaranteed cooling and heating performance 

Is it legal to install Dry Charge units? 

Yes. There are no Federal laws or legal restriction on the installation of R-22 or Dry Charge Equipment, as long as it is as a repair for an existing system. 

Is there a warranty that comes with it? 

Major manufacturers have established a standard 5-year parts warranty on dry charge units. While this offers industry standard protection on the components it does not provide protection against R-22 refrigerant prices, which are expected to increase significantly. 

How expensive will R-22 get in the next few years? 

It is likely that as a result of supply and demand, the answer to this question is “yes – we do anticipate R-22 refrigerant to get pricey”. As the phase out process of R22 continues, new R-22 refrigerant production will progressively be reduced, with full elimination of its production in 2020. Until that date, indications are that there will likely be sufficient supply to meet the current demand. 

If you have more questions about refrigerant, we encourage you to contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for clarification.