R22 (an HCFC) was once the most common refrigerant in air conditioning and refrigeration, but it damages the ozone layer and has long been phased out. If you still maintain R22 systems, here’s where things stand.
The phase-out
Under the Montreal Protocol and EU/UK regulations, the production and import of R22 was banned, and even the use of reclaimed R22 for servicing existing systems was prohibited some years ago. In practice this means you cannot legally top up or recharge an R22 system.
Options for legacy R22 systems
- Retrofit to a compatible HFC/HFO replacement (with recovery, oil change and component checks)
- Replace the system with modern low-GWP equipment — often the best long-term value
- Keep running only until the next fault, then act, since you can’t recharge it
Why replacement often wins
Old R22 equipment is typically inefficient and near end-of-life. Modern systems using R32 or other low-GWP refrigerants are far more efficient, cutting running costs and future-proofing against the ongoing F-Gas phase-down.
FAQ
Can I still buy R22? No — virgin and reclaimed R22 are banned for servicing. Existing systems must be retrofitted or replaced.
Browse modern low-GWP refrigerants for retrofits in our online shop.