Hey, It's Tony. You Still Using R-22? 😬
Look, I’ve been around enough motels, rentals, and sunrooms to know—some folks are still trying to keep those old PTAC units running on borrowed time. If you’re still using R-22 or even R-410A, I get it. You're thinking, "If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it."
But I’m telling you straight: those old refrigerants are holding you back. The performance, the energy costs, the environmental footprint—not to mention the looming regulations that make finding R-22 a small fortune—are all working against you.
Let’s walk through why upgrading to an R-32 PTAC isn’t just better… it’s your next logical move. And I’ll keep it simple. No fluff, no nonsense—just facts, comparisons, and a clear winner.
What’s the Deal With R-32 Anyway? 🌍
R-32 is a next-gen refrigerant that’s been picking up steam across the HVAC industry—and for good reason. It’s the direct replacement for R-410A in many applications, but with a much lower environmental impact.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, refrigerants like R-32 help meet new federal minimum efficiency requirements and emissions reductions. That means your R-32 unit isn’t just new—it’s built to last through the next round of regulations.
Quick comparisons:
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R-22: Outdated, high ozone depletion, super expensive
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R-410A: Better, no ozone impact—but high Global Warming Potential (GWP)
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R-32: No ozone impact, 68% lower GWP than R-410A, more energy efficient
More efficiency. Less environmental baggage. Lower future costs. See where this is going?
So Why Upgrade to an R-32 PTAC? Let’s Count the Ways 🧮
Here’s what you really need to know about making the switch:
1. Energy Efficiency That Pays You Back 💡
R-32 systems are better at absorbing and releasing heat, which means your PTAC doesn’t have to work as hard to cool the same room.
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Lower energy bills
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Faster temperature control
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Better dehumidification
According to Daikin’s engineering analysis, R-32 units can operate up to 10% more efficiently than R-410A systems.
2. It’s Legal (and Future-Proof) 📜
R-22? Banned. R-410A? On its way out. As of 2023, the AIM Act is phasing down HFCs like R-410A in favor of lower-GWP refrigerants.
That means:
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New systems must meet stricter refrigerant standards
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Parts and recharges for old units are getting harder to find
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Insurance and inspections will flag outdated systems
Don’t get caught scrambling when your current unit fails.
3. Reduced Environmental Impact 🌿
With a GWP of just 675 (compared to R-410A’s 2,088), R-32 is part of the HVAC world’s response to climate change.
Swapping to an R-32 PTAC unit makes you part of the solution, not the problem. Plus, it looks good to tenants, customers, and regulators alike.
4. Compact and Lighter Units 📦
Because R-32 transfers heat more efficiently, units designed around it tend to be smaller and lighter. That’s easier for installers and means less wall support structure on retrofits.
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Smaller footprint
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Faster installations
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Less freight damage risk
5. Cost-Effective Over the Long Run 💰
Sure, the upfront cost might be slightly higher than replacing with another R-410A unit. But over time?
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Lower utility bills
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Less service downtime
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Fewer refrigerant top-offs (since R-32 requires a smaller charge)
Not to mention that R-32 is becoming more available and affordable while older refrigerants go extinct.
Safety Talk: Isn’t R-32 Flammable? 🔥
Yeah, let’s talk about the elephant in the room.
R-32 is classified as “A2L”—that means it’s mildly flammable under the right conditions. It’s not going to ignite if you sneeze near it, but it does require some caution.
Modern PTAC units are designed with sealed systems, leak sensors, and UL-tested parts that make R-32 just as safe to use as older refrigerants when installed properly.
Plus, groups like ASHRAE have already built in safety standards for residential applications using A2L refrigerants.
So yes, handle it smartly. But no, it’s not dangerous in the hands of a trained tech or well-made unit.
Should You Retrofit or Replace? 🔧
Short answer: replace.
Most older R-22 and R-410A PTAC units weren’t designed to handle R-32. You’ll need different compressors, coils, and expansion valves—not to mention pressure ratings. Trying to retrofit is like forcing a square peg in a round hole (that could explode).
If you’re switching refrigerants, go all in with a unit that was engineered for R-32 from day one.
Tony’s Bottom Line 🧠
Here’s the deal:
If you’ve got a PTAC unit running on R-22 or R-410A, its days are numbered. Between refrigerant bans, rising utility costs, and performance gaps, you’re tossing money out the window every day that thing runs.
R-32 is faster, leaner, greener, and made for today’s HVAC game. Whether you’re managing a hotel full of units or just want your garage apartment to stay cool without wrecking your power bill, upgrading makes sense.
Best part? You don’t have to hunt around. The Furnace Outlet’s R-32 PTAC collection has options that are reliable, efficient, and ready to install.
Having some PTAC electrical issues? Check out my guide to common electrical issues: Zapped!
Take it from a guy who’s seen the inside of a lot of wall sleeves: It’s time to stop babying that antique and step into something better.
Catch you on the next one,
—Tony the Trusted Tech 🧰⚡
