Everything You Need to Know About R-22 Freon for Sale for HVAC and Automotive Applications

If you’ve been searching for R-22 Freon for sale, you’re not alone. For decades, R-22 — often called Freon-22 — was the most widely used refrigerant in HVAC systems and automotive air conditioners.

However, due to its environmental impact, R-22 production has been phased out worldwide, making it increasingly difficult (and expensive) to find.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about R-22 Freon, including what it is, why it was banned, where it’s still used, and what alternatives are available for HVAC and automotive applications.

What Is R-22 Freon?

R-22, also known as HCFC-22 (Chlorodifluoromethane), is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) refrigerant that was once the industry standard for cooling and refrigeration systems.

R-22 became popular because it offered:

• Excellent cooling performance

• Compatibility with most HVAC and A/C systems

• Low toxicity and easy handling

It was widely marketed under the Freon brand name by DuPont (now Chemours), which is why many people still call it “Freon gas.”

Where R-22 Freon Was Used

R-22 was used for over 40 years in:

• Residential and commercial air conditioners

• Refrigeration units and freezers

• Heat pumps

• Automotive air conditioning systems (in older vehicles)

• Industrial cooling systems

If your home or car’s A/C system was built before 2010, there’s a good chance it still runs on R-22 Freon.

Why R-22 Freon Was Phased Out

Although R-22 was efficient, it contained chlorine, which contributes to ozone layer depletion when released into the atmosphere.

To protect the environment, the Montreal Protocol — a global environmental treaty — mandated the gradual phase-out of ozone-depleting substances like R-22.

• 2010: R-22 banned in new HVAC and A/C systems.

• 2020: Production and import of new R-22 refrigerant banned in most countries, including the U.S. and EU.

Today, only recycled, reclaimed, or stockpiled R-22 can legally be sold and used for maintenance of older systems.

Can You Still Buy R-22 Freon?

✅ Yes — but with restrictions.
R-22 Freon is no longer manufactured, so it is only available as:

• Reclaimed or recycled refrigerant (recovered from old systems, cleaned, and certified)

• Stockpiled cylinders produced before the ban

You can still find R-22 Freon for sale from certified HVAC suppliers or wholesalers, but prices have increased dramatically due to limited supply.

⚠️ Important: Only EPA-certified technicians (in the U.S.) or equivalent licensed professionals in other countries are legally allowed to purchase and handle R-22.

Typical Price Range of R-22 Freon (as of recent years)

Prices vary based on market conditions, location, and purity.

💡 Prices fluctuate because supply is shrinking — making R-22 a high-demand, low-availability product.

R-22 in HVAC Systems

R-22 was the standard refrigerant in most HVAC systems built before 2010. These systems can continue to operate if:

• They are in good mechanical condition

• They are serviced with recycled/reclaimed R-22

• The refrigerant is not leaking excessively

However, due to the high cost and scarcity of R-22, retrofitting to a modern refrigerant (like R-407C or R-422B) is often more economical in the long run.

R-22 in Automotive Applications

R-22 Freon was occasionally used in older vehicle air conditioning systems, particularly in specialized or heavy-duty equipment.

However:

• Most automotive A/C systems used R-12 originally.

• Modern vehicles now use R-134a or R-1234yf, which are more efficient and environmentally friendly.

R-22 is not recommended for modern automotive systems because it operates under different pressures and requires mineral oil lubrication, which is incompatible with newer refrigerants.

R-22 Alternatives and Replacements

When an HVAC or A/C system still relies on R-22, there are two main paths:

1. Retrofit with a Drop-In Replacement

Some refrigerants can be used as direct replacements for R-22 with minimal modification. Common examples include:

2. Replace the Entire System

If your A/C or HVAC unit is over 15 years old, replacing it with a new R-410A or R-32 system can:

• Improve energy efficiency

• Reduce repair costs

• Eliminate the need for hard-to-find refrigerants

Environmental and Legal Considerations

• Do not vent R-22 into the atmosphere. It is illegal and environmentally harmful.

• Always recover and recycle R-22 using certified equipment.

• Only licensed technicians can purchase or handle R-22 legally.

• Reclaimed R-22 must meet AHRI-700 purity standards before resale.

Failure to comply with refrigerant handling laws can result in heavy fines and penalties.

Safety and Handling Tips

• Store cylinders upright in a cool, dry place.

• Avoid open flames — R-22 decomposes into toxic gases when burned.

• Wear gloves and safety goggles during handling.

• Use only certified recovery and charging equipment.

• Label all refrigerant containers clearly.

The Future Beyond R-22

As the world transitions toward low-GWP refrigerants, R-22 will continue to fade from use. Future systems will rely on eco-friendly options like:

• R-32 (for high efficiency)

• R-454B (mildly flammable but very low GWP)

• R-290 (Propane) and CO₂ (R-744) for natural cooling solutions

These modern refrigerants deliver better performance, lower environmental impact, and long-term compliance with global standards.

Conclusion

R-22 Freon was once the backbone of the HVAC and refrigeration industry, but its environmental impact led to its phase-out. While R-22 Freon for sale still exists in limited supply, it is expensive and regulated.

If you own an older system using R-22, your best options are:

• Continue using reclaimed R-22 (if available)

• Retrofit with an approved R-22 replacement refrigerant

• Upgrade to a modern, eco-friendly A/C system

By understanding your options, you can make an informed, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible decision for your cooling needs.