: It is illegal and unsafe for a homeowner to attempt to refill their own R22 system.
What is R22 Refrigerant? | Phase-Out & Replacement Guide - Bryant
: Only individuals or businesses with EPA Section 608 certification can legally purchase and handle R22. can i still buy r22 refrigerant
: You cannot simply put a newer refrigerant like R410A into an R22 system; the different pressures will likely cause immediate and severe equipment damage. Your Options in 2026
: Some systems can be modified by a professional to use "drop-in" replacements like R407C or MO99 . This usually requires changing seals or oil and may reduce the system's cooling capacity. : It is illegal and unsafe for a
If your older unit is leaking or needs more refrigerant, you generally have three paths:
While it is still legal to operate an air conditioner that uses R22, the production and import of new R22 was completely banned in the U.S. on January 1, 2020. Any R22 used today must come from existing stockpiles or be "reclaimed" (recovered and recycled) from older units. Key Facts for Homeowners : You cannot simply put a newer refrigerant
: A licensed technician can still find reclaimed R22 to refill your system. However, if your system has a leak, the expensive new gas will likely just leak out again shortly.