Recognizing the Shift Away from R22
R22 has been phased out due to environmental regulations, leaving many older systems in the Southern California area needing a compatible refrigerant solution. Homeowners and businesses often face the choice of full system replacement or finding a drop-in alternative that maintains performance without excessive cost.
Why R407C Is a Good Replacement for R22. Only Half the Price.
R407C offers similar cooling capacity and operating pressures to R22, allowing it to work in many existing systems with minimal modifications. The significantly lower cost—roughly half that of remaining R22 supplies—makes it an economical choice for extending equipment life. Because it is non-ozone-depleting, it also aligns with current environmental standards.
The Retrofit Process
Technicians begin by recovering the remaining R22, then replace the mineral oil with POE oil required by R407C. Critical components such as the expansion device, filter-drier, and seals are inspected or upgraded for compatibility. The system is evacuated, charged with the new refrigerant, and tested for proper pressures and temperatures. This approach avoids the need for a complete equipment overhaul while restoring reliable operation.
Results for Property Owners
After the changeover, systems typically deliver consistent cooling with no noticeable drop in efficiency. Owners gain continued use of their current equipment, lower immediate expenses, and peace of mind knowing the refrigerant complies with regulations. Regular maintenance following the retrofit helps sustain these benefits over time.
If your system still uses R22, contact BOMING Air Conditioning & Heating to discuss whether an R407C retrofit is appropriate for your setup.