How to Tell If Your AC System Needs a Refrigerant Upgrade Due To The 2025 Regulations in Longmont, CO

If you’re a homeowner in Longmont, CO, you know just how essential your air conditioning system is. Whether you’re staying cool in the summer or keeping your home comfortable year-round, your AC is your go-to solution for climate control. But did you know that your AC’s refrigerant—its vital cooling substance—could be impacted by recent regulations, which might require an upgrade? If you’re uncertain whether your system needs a refrigerant upgrade, you’re not alone. In this post, we’ll walk you through the signs that indicate your AC might need an upgrade due to new refrigerant regulations, and how these changes can affect your home’s comfort and energy efficiency.

The Importance of Refrigerant in Your AC System

Before we dive into the signs that your AC system may need a refrigerant upgrade, let’s take a moment to understand why refrigerant is so crucial. Refrigerant is the substance inside your air conditioner that absorbs and releases heat to cool your home. It plays a central role in the cooling process by evaporating and condensing in the system’s coils. Without the right type and amount of refrigerant, your AC will struggle to cool your home effectively, or may even fail to cool altogether.

However, not all refrigerants are created equal, and the type of refrigerant your system uses can significantly impact its efficiency, environmental footprint, and longevity.

The 2025 Refrigerant Regulations and Their Impact on Your AC System

The 2025 refrigerant regulations are part of a wider effort to phase out certain refrigerants, namely R-22, which has been shown to contribute to ozone depletion. In place of older refrigerants, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has endorsed newer, more environmentally friendly refrigerants, like R-410A, which are both more energy-efficient and have a lower environmental impact.

In Longmont, CO, these changes affect older AC systems that still rely on R-22. The phase-out of R-22 means that it’s becoming harder and more expensive to find, and as a result, it’s essential for homeowners with older systems to consider upgrading their refrigerant or even replacing their units altogether. But how do you know if your system falls into this category?

Signs Your AC System Needs a Refrigerant Upgrade

If your AC system is using R-22, or if it’s been in operation for a number of years, you may need to consider a refrigerant upgrade. Here are some signs that your system might need attention:

1. Your AC is Blowing Warm Air Instead of Cool Air

One of the most noticeable signs that your refrigerant might need to be upgraded is if your AC is blowing warm air when it should be cool. This could be a sign that your refrigerant is leaking or that the refrigerant levels are low. If you’re still using R-22, it’s possible that your system isn’t running at optimal levels due to the difficulty in sourcing R-22 and the environmental regulations that govern its use.

2. Your System is Struggling to Maintain Temperature

If your AC seems to be running constantly but can’t quite keep up with the heat, this could indicate that it’s not working as efficiently as it should be. When the refrigerant is outdated or in insufficient quantity, it can affect the overall cooling process, forcing the system to work harder to reach the desired temperature.

3. Frequent Refrigerant Leaks

Refrigerant leaks are common in aging AC units, especially those that rely on R-22. If you notice that your AC system is requiring frequent refrigerant recharges, it could be a sign that it’s time to upgrade. As R-22 becomes scarcer and more expensive, the cost of maintaining older systems can skyrocket, making it more cost-effective to consider a refrigerant upgrade or even a full system replacement.

4. Higher Energy Bills

A sudden spike in your energy bills without any obvious reason could be a sign that your AC system isn’t running as efficiently as it once did. If your system is struggling to cool your home because of outdated or insufficient refrigerant, it can lead to higher energy consumption and increased costs.

5. System Age

Older air conditioning systems (typically those older than 10-15 years) are more likely to be using R-22 refrigerant. As the refrigerant becomes harder to find and more expensive, your system’s efficiency will decrease, leading to more frequent repairs, higher costs, and a shorter lifespan for your unit. If your AC is at or near the end of its life, it’s worth considering an upgrade to a more modern refrigerant and a more energy-efficient system.

Why Should You Consider a Refrigerant Upgrade?

If any of the signs above resonate with your situation, you may be wondering why you should even bother with a refrigerant upgrade. Let’s look at the primary benefits:

1. Cost Savings in the Long Run

Although upgrading your refrigerant or replacing your AC system might feel like a significant upfront cost, it can actually save you money in the long term. Modern refrigerants, like R-410A, are more energy-efficient and require less maintenance, leading to lower energy bills and fewer service calls. Over time, the savings can add up.

2. Environmental Responsibility

The newer refrigerants are designed to be more environmentally friendly, with a lower global warming potential. By upgrading, you’re helping to reduce your home’s carbon footprint and playing your part in promoting a healthier planet. This is especially important as the world works to mitigate climate change and reduce harmful emissions.

3. Increased Comfort

A properly maintained AC system that uses the correct refrigerant is more efficient and effective at cooling your home. With a refrigerant upgrade, you can expect more consistent and comfortable temperatures throughout your home, making it easier to stay cool during those warmer months.

4. Compliance with Regulations

The new refrigerant regulations are mandatory, and failing to comply could lead to fines or higher repair costs. By upgrading your refrigerant, you ensure that your AC system is compliant with current laws and can operate without interruption.

How to Make the Transition to a New Refrigerant

If you’ve determined that your AC needs a refrigerant upgrade, you might be wondering what steps you need to take. Here’s what you should know:

1. Call a Professional HVAC Technician

Refrigerant upgrades and repairs should only be handled by trained professionals. HVAC technicians have the expertise and tools necessary to properly handle and dispose of old refrigerants, recharge your system with the correct type, and ensure your AC is operating efficiently. Trying to handle this on your own could be dangerous and lead to further damage to your system.

2. Evaluate the Age and Condition of Your AC System

If your AC system is nearing the end of its lifespan, it might be more cost-effective to replace it entirely rather than simply upgrading the refrigerant. A new system with the latest energy-efficient technology and refrigerants can provide long-term savings and improved comfort.

3. Check for Leaks

Before upgrading the refrigerant, your technician will likely check for leaks in the system. Leaks can cause your refrigerant levels to drop and reduce your system’s effectiveness. If there are any leaks, they will need to be repaired before the new refrigerant is added.

4. Choose the Right Refrigerant

If you have an older system, you’ll need to ensure that it is compatible with newer refrigerants like R-410A. Some older systems can be retrofitted, but others may require a full replacement to accommodate the newer refrigerant types.

For HVAC Services in Longmont, CO, Contact DNI Heating, Cooling, Refrigeration, & Plumbing, Inc. Today

Upgrading your refrigerant due to the 2025 regulations may seem like a daunting task, but with the right guidance and expertise, it’s a manageable and worthwhile investment. At DNI Heating, Cooling, Refrigeration, & Plumbing, Inc., we’re here to help you navigate these changes and ensure your system is operating at peak efficiency. Our experienced team will evaluate your system, provide recommendations, and make the transition as smooth as possible.

Don’t wait until your system starts to fail—contact DNI Heating, Cooling, Refrigeration, & Plumbing, Inc. today for a consultation. We’ll help you keep your home comfortable and compliant with all regulations, ensuring peace of mind for years to come.