Much has changed in the decades since heat pumps first became popular in Florida, but nothing’s been a hotter topic of debate than Freon. Once the gold standard of refrigerants, Freon has recently been phased out of use and replaced by more efficient, environmentally friendly alternatives like R-410A and R-32.
These changes have caused no shortage of confusion, but we’re here to set the record straight about refrigerants: how they work, which types are still in use and what you need to know if your heat pump still uses Freon.
Quick Takeaways
- All heat pumps use refrigerant to transfer heat between indoors and outdoors.
- Freon-based systems are outdated; modern units use R-410A, R-32 or R-454B.
- Freon production is banned in the U.S. due to environmental concerns.
- Heat pumps using Freon can still be serviced, but only by certified technicians.
- Replacing your Freon-based system can save money and simplify upkeep.
How Refrigerant Works in a Heat Pump
Before getting into specifics, let’s review how heat pumps use refrigerant to control indoor temperatures. Heat pumps are closed-loop systems built around the same heat transfer process as air conditioners, refrigerators and freezers.
Known as the refrigeration cycle, it consists of four main phases:
- Evaporation: Cold, low-pressure refrigerant enters the evaporator coil as a liquid and absorbs heat from the surrounding air, evaporating into a gas.
- Compression: Gaseous refrigerant is squeezed into a smaller volume inside the compressor, sharply increasing its temperature and pressure.
- Condensation: Hot, high-pressure refrigerant gas flows through the condenser coil, releasing heat energy and condensing back into liquid form.
- Expansion: High-pressure liquid refrigerant passes through the expansion valve, rapidly dropping in pressure and cooling down.
Without refrigerant, this heat transfer process simply wouldn’t be possible. Not only is it effective and efficient, but it’s also fully reversible. Thanks to a device called a reversing valve, heat pumps can circulate refrigerant in either direction, switching between cooling and heating modes with the press of a button.
What Is Freon Refrigerant — and Why Is It Banned?
Freon is a trade name used for several products developed by DuPont, but it most often refers to R-22 refrigerant. This type of refrigerant remained the industry standard among HVAC manufacturers for several decades, so what changed?
In the 1990s, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began tightening regulations on Freon due to growing concerns over global warming and ozone depletion. Under the Clean Air Act, the EPA enforced strict servicing requirements and took the first steps toward a national R-22 phaseout. This process eventually culminated in a complete ban on Freon refrigerant import and production in 2020.
So, does a heat pump still use Freon? In some cases, yes. Obsolete models may still run on R-22 and can continue being used without penalty. However, with Freon now out of production, servicing and repairing these systems will eventually become prohibitively expensive.
Common Refrigerants Used in Heat Pumps Today
Companies are always working to develop safer, more efficient refrigerants, but few ever manage to achieve widespread use. With few exceptions, today’s home heat pumps run on just three main types of refrigerants:
The Modern Standard: R-410A (Puron)
Developed by Carrier under the name Puron, R-410A is the most widely used modern HVAC refrigerant. Comparing R-410A vs. R-22 refrigerant, Puron’s much higher operating pressures and higher-quality lubricants result in better energy efficiency and less wear and tear. Puron also doesn’t deplete the ozone layer, but its global warming potential (GWP) remains relatively high.
Alas, like its predecessor, R-410A is already on its way out. Manufacturers can no longer build new Puron-based systems as of 2025, although the refrigerant itself will remain readily available for the foreseeable future.
The Next Generation: R-32 and R-454B
If you’re an early adopter, you may have already encountered heat pumps using R-454B or R-32 refrigerant. In accordance with the latest industry regulations, these new refrigerants greatly reduce the environmental impacts of home heating and cooling. What’s more, they each offer unique advantages that can make upgrading your heat pump a worthwhile investment.
R-32 refrigerant is particularly energy-efficient, helping you lower utility bills and shrink your carbon footprint. As a single-component refrigerant, it’s also much easier to recharge and recycle. Meanwhile, R-454B boasts a considerably lower GWP, making it more likely to pass tighter regulations in the future.
The Stubborn Holdout: R-22 (Freon)
Considering its long-standing popularity, it’s no surprise many heat pumps still run on R-22. Unfortunately, to keep the Freon flowing, technicians now rely on refrigerant recycled or reclaimed from other sources. As these finite supplies continue dwindling, the cost of servicing R-22 systems will only increase.
This looming crunch puts even reliable and well-maintained units on borrowed time. If you still use a Freon heat pump, your best bet may be to upgrade at the earliest opportunity.
How To Handle a Freon or Refrigerant Leak
Has your previously reliable heat pump been going haywire lately? Are you suddenly struggling to stay in your preferred temperature range?
The problem could be a heat pump leak, so watch closely for the following low refrigerant signs:
- Insufficient heating or cooling output
- Short cycling or unusually long running times
- Bubbling or hissing noises near the indoor unit
- Ice or frost buildup on coils or refrigerant lines
- Abnormally high or steadily increasing utility bills
If you suspect your heat pump has a Freon leak, never try finding or fixing it yourself. Not only can this invalidate your system’s warranty, but it can put the environment — and your health — at risk.
Play it safe and call One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning for expert heat pump repairs in Niceville, FL and beyond. Our highly qualified technicians are trained to strict EPA 608 certification standards, and we know how to prioritize refrigerant safety while ensuring speedy, high-quality service.
When To Repair vs. Replace a Freon Heat Pump
If your Freon heat pump is on the blink, you face a tricky choice. Should you bite the proverbial bullet and upgrade to R-410A? Or should you just repair your system in hopes of running out the clock on R-22 heat pump replacement?
No single answer is right for every situation, but we’ve whipped up a quick guide to help you make an informed decision.
| Repair if… | Replace if… |
|---|---|
| The system was installed less than 10 years ago. | The heat pump is more than a decade old. |
| The unit is generally reliable and well-maintained. | You’ve noticed multiple HVAC replacement signs. |
| The problem is minor and parts are available. | Repairs total at least 40% of replacement costs. |
| You can easily source reclaimed R-22 refrigerant. | Buying R-22 refrigerant is difficult or expensive. |
| Your system is still efficient and affordable to operate. | You want to reduce your energy use and carbon footprint. |
How Modern Refrigerants Improve Efficiency & Sustainability
Here at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, we proudly specialize in installing efficient and sustainable HVAC systems featuring modern, eco-friendly refrigerants. It’s our way of helping you create a comfier, cozier, greener home — all while keeping more green in your wallet.
If you’re still stuck in the Freon age, it’s time to replace your heat pump and unlock the full potential of modern refrigerants. Even upgrading to R-410A efficiency can noticeably improve comfort and cut energy costs, to say nothing of the cutting-edge performance that comes with R-32 refrigerant.
FAQs: Heat Pump Refrigerant Questions Answered
Does every heat pump use refrigerant?
Yes! Whether they’re air-source, water-source, geothermal or ductless, all heat pumps rely on the same basic refrigeration cycle to transfer heat.
Can I convert an old R-22 system to R-410A?
Existing R-22 systems can’t easily accommodate the unique pressure and lubrication requirements of R-410A, so full replacement is the only practical option.
What refrigerant will replace R-410A in the future?
While R-410A won’t be disappearing anytime soon, the industry is gradually transitioning to safer, lower-GWP refrigerants like R-32 and R-454B.
How do I know which refrigerant my system uses?
For info about your system, including refrigerant type and specified charge, check the owner’s manual or the label affixed to the outdoor unit.
How often should refrigerant be refilled?
Never. Heat pumps are designed to be sealed systems, so any loss of refrigerant means there’s a leak that needs fixing right away.
Keep Your Cool With One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning
Wondering if it’s finally time to upgrade your aging R-22 heat pump? Worried your system might have sprung a hidden refrigerant leak? Don’t sweat it — One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning in Niceville, FL is here to help.
Our skilled technicians offer comprehensive heat pump services, including refrigerant diagnostics, leak detection and repair, full system replacement and more.
Call us now for fast, reliable service at an honest price. We’re always on time or you don’t pay a dime!