How Old Is Your HVAC System? NJ Systems Over 10 Years Old May Use R22

Not every homeowner knows what refrigerant their AC uses. But if your system was installed before 2010, there is a high probability it runs on R22 — a refrigerant that has been banned since 2020. Here is how to find out and why it matters for your wallet.

R22 was the standard residential refrigerant from the 1970s through the mid-2000s. Manufacturers began transitioning to R410A around 2006, and by January 2010 all new AC systems were required to use R410A or another approved refrigerant. This means any AC system manufactured before 2010 almost certainly uses R22. Systems manufactured between 2006 and 2010 could use either refrigerant. If your system was installed in 2010 or later, it likely uses R410A and you do not have the R22 problem.

3 Ways to Check If Your System Uses R22

1. 1Check the label on your outdoor unit — look for a sticker or nameplate that lists the refrigerant type. It will say R22, HCFC-22, or R410A. The label is usually on the side or back of the outdoor condenser unit.
2. 2Check the installation date — look at your home purchase records, warranty documents, or the unit nameplate for a manufacture date. Any system made before 2010 is very likely R22.
3. 3Look up the model number — find the model number on your outdoor unit nameplate and search it online. The manufacturer specification sheet will list the refrigerant type.

Why System Age Matters for Rebates

Older R22 systems are dramatically less efficient than modern heat pumps. A 15-year-old R22 system operates at roughly 10 SEER, while a modern heat pump operates at 18-22 SEER — nearly double the efficiency. This means your current system uses almost twice as much electricity as a new one to produce the same amount of cooling. NJ rebate programs specifically target older, less efficient systems because replacing them has the biggest impact on energy savings and carbon reduction. If your R22 system is 15 or more years old, you are likely to qualify for the highest rebate tier. Call (862) 423-9396 to confirm your system age and rebate eligibility.