Question

A newer central AC's condenser unit use R410 refrigerant. Will it be possible to use the air handler, evaporative coil, and tubes that used old R22 refrigerant by vacuuming it out and replace with R410?

Answer 1

No, it is not possible to use the air handler, evaporative coil, and tubes that were designed for R22 refrigerant with R410A simply by vacuuming out the old refrigerant and replacing it with R410A. There are several reasons why this cannot be done:

1. Incompatible Refrigerants: R22 and R410A are not compatible refrigerants. R410A is a blend of two different refrigerants, while R22 is a single-component refrigerant. Mixing refrigerants can lead to serious performance issues and potentially damage the system.

2. Different Operating Pressures: R410A operates at much higher pressures than R22. The components of the air handler, evaporative coil, and tubes in a system designed for R22 are not built to withstand the higher pressure levels of R410A. Using R410A in an R22 system could cause leaks or even equipment failure.

3. Oil Compatibility: The lubricating oil used in the compressor for R22 systems is not suitable for R410A. R410A requires a different type of oil, which is compatible with the higher pressures and characteristics of R410A.

4. Efficiency and Performance: R410A systems are designed with specific components and engineering to optimize the performance and efficiency of the refrigerant. Using an incompatible refrigerant can lead to poor system performance, reduced efficiency, and increased energy consumption.

5. Safety Concerns: Attempting to retrofit an R22 system to use R410A without proper training and equipment can be hazardous. Refrigerant handling requires specific safety procedures, and improper handling can lead to refrigerant leaks, environmental damage, and personal injury.

If you have an older system that uses R22 and want to transition to R410A, it's not as simple as just changing the refrigerant. A complete system replacement or major retrofit would be necessary, which involves replacing the air handler, evaporative coil, tubes, and the compressor to accommodate the different refrigerant properties. It is essential to consult with a licensed HVAC professional who can assess your current system and recommend the best course of action for your specific situation.