Understanding Freon in Your AC Unit: What Homeowners Need to Know

Air conditioning plays an essential role in home comfort, especially during the hot summer months. At the heart of most traditional AC systems is a chemical refrigerant—often referred to by the brand name Freon—that allows your unit to keep your home cool. Yet despite its critical role, many homeowners don’t realize how Freon works, what it does, or why it’s becoming a more complex issue across the home warranty landscape. This article explores how Freon functions within your AC unit, its advantages and limitations, and how you can make smart, informed decisions about maintenance and potential replacement, especially if your current system relies on older refrigerants.

What Is Freon and How Does It Work in Your Air Conditioner?

Freon is a type of chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) or hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) used as a refrigerant. In residential central air conditioning systems, refrigerant is integral—it absorbs heat from inside your home and transfers it outside, leaving you with cooler indoor air. The Freon cycles through the unit in a closed loop, transforming from liquid to gas and back again under pressure. As it changes state, it absorbs and releases heat, enabling your AC system to maintain a stable indoor temperature. The most commonly known Freon is R-22, but newer systems now rely on R-410A and other refrigerants due to environmental regulations. Understanding what type is in your system is vital to diagnosing issues, arranging proper maintenance, and planning for eventual upgrades.

Environmental Regulations Are Changing the Game

The use of R-22 Freon has been heavily regulated. In 2010, the Environmental Protection Agency began phasing out manufacturing of R-22 for new air conditioners due to its ozone-depleting properties. By 2020, the production and import of R-22 were totally banned in the United States. This doesn’t mean systems that use R-22 are illegal—but any repairs that require additional refrigerant can become more expensive and challenging due to limited supply. Homeowners with older systems face a dilemma: invest in expensive recharges or replace an aging AC unit altogether. This scenario is increasingly common and directly impacts the service and replacement limitations of many home warranty providers.

The Impact of Freon on AC Repair Costs

One of the most immediate concerns for homeowners with R-22-based systems is cost. If your unit is leaking Freon, topping it off can become prohibitively expensive. Because R-22 is no longer openly produced, recycled or stockpiled supplies are the only source, driving up the price. In contrast, newer systems that run on R-410A (marketed as Puron) use a refrigerant that’s more eco-friendly and readily available. For warranty coverage, this distinction matters significantly. Some home warranty providers will exclude systems that still rely on obsolete refrigerants or place cost limits on repairs involving them. Ultimately, opting for a modern system using a compliant refrigerant isn’t just environmentally sound—it may also save you hundreds in out-of-pocket repair costs.

Identifying What Type of Refrigerant Your System Uses

To make smart decisions about your air conditioning unit, you need to first determine which refrigerant it uses. This information is usually found on a label attached to the condenser unit outside your home. If your unit was installed before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it uses R-22. Units installed between 2010 and 2015 may use either R-22 or R-410A, depending on manufacturer practices. More recent systems are overwhelmingly built with R-410A, in compliance with federal guidelines. Knowing your system’s age and specifications helps you navigate conversations with HVAC professionals and warranty providers more effectively. It also puts you in a better position when evaluating the cost-benefit of repair versus replacement.

Signs Your AC May Be Losing Freon

Low refrigerant levels are typically the result of a leak, and several symptoms can indicate a problem. You might notice your home isn’t cooling as evenly or effectively as before. There could be ice buildup on the evaporator coils, a hissing noise near the unit, or an increase in electrical bills as the system compensates by running more frequently. Importantly, air conditioning units are closed systems, so refrigerant should never “run out” under normal operation. If Freon levels are dropping, a leak is occurring—and that requires urgent attention. Waiting too long can harm the compressor, turning a minor repair into a full system replacement. Keep this in mind during seasonal maintenance checkpoints or when your system underperforms.

Home Warranty Coverage and Freon-Related Issues

If your home warranty includes HVAC coverage, it’s wise to examine what’s actually covered in relation to refrigerants. Some providers limit the amount they’ll pay for refrigerant recharges, especially if your system uses obsolete types like R-22. Others may not cover Freon-related repairs at all if the leak is deemed to be pre-existing or due to poor maintenance. Understanding the language in your service contract is essential. With modern systems, coverage tends to be less complicated. This discrepancy makes upgrading to a newer unit not only a matter of efficiency but also of long-term financial predictability. With a robust home warranty plan from a transparent and comprehensive provider, you can take some of the guesswork out of AC maintenance and repairs.

Why Armadillo Is the Smarter Choice for Homeowners Navigating Freon Concerns

Freon may be phasing out, but the need for dependable cooling systems is permanent. As a homeowner, protecting your investment means understanding where your system stands in terms of refrigerant usage, and knowing how that reality impacts ongoing service and warranty options. Armadillo offers straightforward, intelligent home warranty plans that account for the real-world scenarios homeowners are facing today. Whether you’re dealing with an R-22 system on its last season or have a newer unit and simply want peace of mind, Armadillo can help you plan accordingly. Our digital-first approach makes it easy to review your coverage, schedule service visits, and get support quickly—without unexpected gaps. Learn more about our comprehensive protection at www.armadillo.one or start building your custom plan in moments at our plan builder here.