Have you had to recharge the air conditioner in your home, car, or office recently? Many homeowners in Lawton and surrounding Oklahoma communities are finding themselves caught off guard by the rising cost and limited availability of refrigerants. And it's not just about price—the HVAC industry is undergoing major changes in the types of refrigerants we can use, which affects both your comfort and your long-term options.
Let’s break down what’s happening and how Pippin Brothers can help you stay ahead.
The End of R-22 and R-410A
If your system still uses R-22 refrigerant, it’s important to understand that R-22 was officially phased out around 2015, and as of 2020, it's illegal to manufacture it. Any remaining supply must come from recycled refrigerant. That means prices are high, supply is limited, and older systems using R-22 are becoming harder and more expensive to maintain.
But the phaseout doesn’t stop there.
We’re now seeing the next wave of refrigerant regulation. R-410A, once the replacement for R-22, is also being phased out due to its environmental impact. New HVAC systems are transitioning to refrigerants like R-454B and R-32.
What Does This Mean for Homeowners?
If your current HVAC system uses R-410A, you may still have access to some replacement parts—especially AC units and coils. That’s only because suppliers stocked up on R-410A systems before production stopped. Manufacturers are no longer making new R-410A systems, and once current inventories run out, they’re gone for good. Heat pumps using R-410A are already much harder to find, since suppliers had fewer of those on hand.
In short, now’s the time to plan ahead. Whether your system runs on R-22, R-410A, or you're thinking about a full upgrade, it’s more important than ever to talk with a licensed HVAC professional who understands the changes and can help you make the best decision for your home and budget.
Work with a Local HVAC Pro at Pippin Brothers?
At Pippin Brothers, we’ve been serving the Lawton, Fort Sill, and Duncan communities since 1978. We take a diagnostic-first approach, giving you honest, informed recommendations about whether to repair, retrofit, or replace your system.
- We help you navigate refrigerant changes and find equipment that fits your home and budget.
- We’re fully trained to safely handle flammable refrigerants like R-454B and R-32.
- We provide up-to-date advice on efficiency standards, tax credits, and rebates.
A Smart, Sustainable Future
These refrigerant changes are part of a broader push toward climate-conscious HVAC technology. Newer systems not only use eco-friendlier refrigerants, but also operate more efficiently, saving energy and reducing utility costs.
Upgrading isn’t just about keeping cool—it’s about protecting your comfort, your budget, and the environment.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
If your A/C or heat pump is getting older, or you’re concerned about refrigerant availability, now is the time to take action. Call Pippin Brothers at 580-699-5662 or contact us online to schedule an assessment or get a free estimate. We’ll help you make a smooth transition to a system that’s ready for the future—whatever it brings.