What’s an Air Conditioning Dry Charge?

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

In late 2010 reputable air conditioning companies 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 for a few more years. The reason for these Dry Charged Units is to give the greater Fort Lauderdale area a more simple and affordable replacement option for central air conditioners and heat pumps. However, these units also bypass 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 be aware 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 considered a replacement “part”. Today, condensers or heat pumps intended for use in a replacement R-22 system are usually referred to as “Dry Charge” or “Nitrogen Charged” systems. Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about this recent A/C Dry Charge trend. 

Should I buy a “Dry Charge” A/C system? 

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 offers and seek solutions that speaks to 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 offer benefits to Fort Lauderdale homeowners that Dry Charge units do not. A sample of the benefits include: 

• Improved energy efficiency for affordable in-home comfort 
• Modern technology to lessen humidity 
• Current production refrigerant solutions guaranteeing longer life and extended availability of refrigerant 

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

Are Dry Change Air Conditioning Unit legal to install? 

Yes. There are no Federal laws or legal restriction on the installation of R-22 or Dry Charge Equipment, with the stipulation that it is repairing an existing air conditioning system. 

Does a warranty come with a Dry Charge Unit? 

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 substantially. 

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

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 slowly be reduced, with full elimination of its production in 2020. Until that time however, 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.