Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) are chemicals that are mainly used as refrigerants. To protect the Earth’s protective ozone layer, the United States is phasing out a common refrigerant known as HCFC-22 (also known as R-22), along with other chemicals.

As the United States phases out refrigerant HCFC-22, consumers will need to make informed choices when servicing, repairing, or replacing an existing air-conditioning unit or when purchasing a new unit. The resources below provide more information about refrigerant choices and the availability of HCFC-22.

• What You Should Know about Refrigerants When Purchasing a Residential A/C System or Heat Pump Homeowners Frequently Asked Questions 
• Homeowners and Consumers Frequently Asked Questions
• Information on where and how to dispose of appliances that contain HCFC-22
• How to report a violation of the Clean Air Act
• Questions and Answers About R-22a Safety
• EPA Warns Against Use of Refrigerant Substitutes That Pose Fire and Explosion Risk (7/1/2013)