What’s an Air Conditioning Dry Charge?

Over the past decade, both the U.S. and Canadian governments have directed that all producers 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 turn to a more environmentally friendly refrigerant with a technical label R410A. R410A has been proven to be safer for the environment. 

In late 2010 most air conditioning companies began manufacturing Air Conditioning and Heat Pump units, without adding refrigerant at the factory. Such systems are more commonly called “dry charged units”. These A/C units can legally be sold and installed which permits your Fort Lauderdale area HVAC contractor to charge the unit on-site with R22. R22 is still legal for AC repair or service a while longer. The intent for these Dry Charged Units is to give the greater Fort Lauderdale area a more simple and relatively inexpensive replacement option for central air conditioners and heat pumps. However, these units also dodge the spirit of the mandates, which was intended to better protect our environment by moving the air conditioning industry to a more environmentally friendly refrigerant. 

Fort Lauderdale homeowners should know that these Dry Charged Units are approved in the U.S. and Canada. Because of the lack of clarity regarding the definition of an outdoor unit in the rules, the entire outdoor unit is technically deemed a replacement “part”. These days, condensers or heat pumps intended for use in a replacement R-22 system are now referred to as “Dry Charge” or “Nitrogen Charged” systems. The following 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? 

Well, it really depends on a number of things. The best thing to do is learn what types of HVAC equipment the heating and air conditioning industry can offer 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. 

Why would I buy a R-410A refrigerant system? 

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

• Greater energy efficiency for comfort at a cost savings 
• State-of-the-art technology to lessen humidity 
• Current production refrigerant solutions allowing longer life and extended availability of refrigerant 

• Extended warranty periods for more peace of mind 
• Quieter operation for a more peaceful indoor environment 
• Ozone friendly refrigerant that reduces the carbon imprint that negatively impacts our environment 
• Matched coil solutions for increased reliability and guaranteed cooling and heating performance 

Are Dry Charge units legal? 

Yes. There are no Federal laws or legal restriction on the installation of R-22 or Dry Charge Equipment, however, it can only be used as a repair to an existing system. 

Is there a warranty that comes with it? 

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

Is R-22 refrigerant going to get really expensive? 

It is likely that as a result of supply and demand, the refrigerant will probably go up in price. As the phase out process of R22 continues, new R-22 refrigerant production will gradually be reduced, with full elimination of its production in 2020. Until then, 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.