HVAC Refrigerant Service And Changes
R-410A Refrigerant changes coming to Las Vegas in Reno NV
When it comes to home comfort, your air conditioner’s refrigerant plays a more important role than most homeowners realize. Whether you live in the desert heat of Las Vegas or the high-altitude sun of Reno, choosing the right refrigerant—and understanding how recent changes affect your system—is essential for reliable performance and long-term savings.
What Is Refrigerant and Why Does It Matter?
Refrigerant is the chemical inside your AC system that absorbs heat from inside your home and releases it outside. It’s the engine behind your cooling process, and without it, your air conditioner wouldn’t work at all. But not all refrigerants are the same—and many older systems in Nevada are still running on outdated blends that are now being phased out or banned.
Over the past decade, environmental regulations have pushed the HVAC industry to move away from ozone-depleting refrigerants like R-22 and, more recently, high-global-warming alternatives like R-410A. If your system uses either of these, you’re likely facing higher service costs and limited availability. Now’s the time to plan for what comes next.
What to Know About the R-22 Phase-Out
If your system was installed before 2010, there’s a good chance it runs on R-22. Unfortunately, R-22 was officially phased out in the U.S., and no new supplies are being manufactured. That means:
- The cost of R-22 is rising fast.
- Repairs that require recharging refrigerant are more expensive.
- Replacement parts for R-22 systems are increasingly difficult to find.
While some replacement refrigerants are marketed as “drop-in” alternatives, not all of them are compatible with older components. Mixing the wrong types can lead to pressure imbalances, poor efficiency, or complete system failure.
For more insights, check out Legacy’s blog post on adapting to the R-22 phase-out.
The Future of R-410A Systems
Even newer systems that use R-410A are now facing regulatory pressure. While it has been the go-to refrigerant for over a decade, R-410A has a high global warming potential. As part of nationwide climate initiatives, it’s being phased down and replaced with more environmentally friendly options.
This doesn’t mean you need to panic if your system runs on R-410A. But it does mean that the next time you’re shopping for a new air conditioner or heat pump, you’ll want to choose a model built with future refrigerant standards in mind.
Legacy’s recent article on the R-410A phase-out outlines what homeowners need to be aware of.
Should You Mix Refrigerants?
It might seem like a quick fix to top off your system with whatever refrigerant is available, but mixing refrigerants is never a safe or smart option. It can lead to chemical reactions, damage your compressor, reduce cooling performance, and even void your warranty.
At Legacy Air, we never cut corners when it comes to refrigerant management. Our licensed technicians ensure the right refrigerant is used, in the right amounts, every time. Learn more about this issue in our post: Can I Mix Different Refrigerants?
Your Options: Replace, Retrofit, or Maintain
If you’re not ready to replace your whole system, a retrofit might be an option. Retrofitting involves replacing certain components of your R-22 system so it can run on a newer, approved refrigerant. This can be a cost-effective way to extend the life of your AC without investing in a full replacement—though not every system is a good candidate.
For more on this process, check out our blog on retrofitting with a higher-efficiency R-410A system: Retrofitting with a Higher-Efficiency R-410A System.
If your system is still functioning well and doesn’t require major repairs, you may be able to maintain it with routine inspections and cautious refrigerant management. But once repairs become frequent or refrigerant costs skyrocket, upgrading will often save you money in the long run.
We're Here to Help—Las Vegas & Reno’s Trusted HVAC Experts
At Legacy Air, we help homeowners in Las Vegas and Reno navigate refrigerant transitions with confidence. Whether you’re maintaining an older system or preparing to upgrade, our experienced technicians will guide you through the safest and most cost-effective path forward.
We never mix refrigerants, cut corners, or push unnecessary replacements. Our goal is to ensure your system runs efficiently and safely—no matter what refrigerant it uses.
Join The Team!
Frequently Asked Questions
Refrigerant is the substance that absorbs heat from your indoor air and releases it outside, allowing your air conditioner to cool your home effectively.
Yes, but R-22 is no longer produced, so repairs can be costly. Legacy Air can help you explore safe replacement refrigerants or recommend system upgrades.
No. Mixing refrigerants can cause system damage, poor performance, and may void your warranty. Always use the correct refrigerant for your unit.
R-410A is being phased down and replaced with refrigerants that have lower global warming potential, such as R-32 and R-454B, in newer systems.
If your system uses an outdated refrigerant or needs frequent repairs, a technician can evaluate whether a retrofit or full replacement is more cost-effective.
Yes. Regardless of location, all HVAC systems are subject to federal refrigerant regulations. Legacy Air serves both areas with compliant, efficient solutions.