Theoretically Possible But Not Practical

No, you cannot just evacuate R-22 from a system and replace it with R-410A, or vice-versa. Both the condenser and evaporator units of a system are designed specifically to be compatible with only one refrigerant, and will not function if it is changed. While it is possible to replace multiple components of an older R-22 HVAC system so that it will operate with R-410A, the parts and labor cost makes it a terrible investment compared to upgrading to a new the system—which would also be higher efficiency. Plus, the converted systems do not always perform satisfactorily.

    R-22 is an older refrigerant that has been being phased out gradually since 2010. Remaining supplies are limited and becoming more expensive, so going from R-410A backwards to R-22 makes even less sense.

    Also, see our blog posts How can I tell if an air conditioner uses R-22 or R-410A refrigerant? and When does the ban on R-22 air conditioning refrigerant take effect?

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  To learn more about heating and air conditioning systems, see these other blog posts:

• How can I find out the SEER of my air conditioner? 

• My air conditioner won't turn on. What's wrong? 

• How can I find out the size of my air conditioner? 

• How can I find out the age of my air conditioner or furnace?

• How can I tell whether the condenser (outdoor unit) is an air conditioner or heat pump? 

• Where is the air filter for my central air conditioner and furnace? I can’t find it? 

• Does an old air conditioner use more electricity as it ages? 

• How did homes stay cool in Florida before air conditioning? 

• What is wrong with an air conditioner when the air flow out of the vents is low?

• Why has the thermostat screen gone blank? 

• Why does it take so long to cool a house when an air conditioner has been off for a while? 

• Why is my air conditioner not cooling enough? 

• What are the most common problems with wall/window air conditioners?  

• Will closing doors reduce my heating and cooling costs? 

   Visit our HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING page for other related blog posts on this subject, or go to the INDEX for a complete listing of all our articles.