Misinformation about the R22 Changeover

I have heard a lot of reports lately about other companies telling customers things about the R22 refrigerant phase out that simply are not true.  R22 refrigerant is being phased out, but new R22 refrigerant will be available until at least 2020 and then recycled refrigerant will be available until at least 2030.  Some outside condensing units that use R22 are still available and in many cases are a good choice for the consumer.  Some companies are trying to scare customers by telling them if you install a R22 condenser now in a few years when you need to change out your inside equipment you will not be able to get an R22 compatible inside unit.  This is NOT true.  Just about all the inside units being built right now are backwards compatible to be converted to R22.  All you have to do is change the expansion valve to an R22 valve.  If you are going to change the entire system then I recommend you change it to a system that uses the new refrigerant R410a.  If your inside unit is less than 4 years old you can probably upgrade it to a R410a system with the proper flushing of the lines and coil.  If your inside unit is 5 years or older and you need to change your outside unit then ACT QUICKLY while the R22 condensers are still available.