How to Tell If Your NJ Home Has an R22 System — 3 Easy Ways to Check

You have heard that R22 is banned and NJ homeowners can get up to $16,000 in rebates for replacing R22 systems. But you are not sure if your AC actually uses R22. Here are three simple ways to find out in the next 10 minutes.

Walk outside to your air conditioning condenser — the box-shaped unit with a fan on top, usually located on the side or back of your house. Look for a metal nameplate or sticker on the unit. It will list the manufacturer, model number, serial number, and refrigerant type. If you see R-22, HCFC-22, or R22 listed under refrigerant, your system uses the banned refrigerant. If you see R-410A, your system uses the newer refrigerant and does not have the R22 issue.

Method 2 — Check the Installation Date

If the label is faded or hard to read, check the installation date. Look at the serial number on the nameplate — many manufacturers encode the manufacture date in the first few characters. You can also check your home purchase inspection report, warranty documents, or prior HVAC service records. If the system was installed before 2010, it almost certainly uses R22. Systems installed between 2006 and 2010 could use either R22 or R410A. Systems installed after 2010 use R410A or newer refrigerants.

Method 3 — Look Up the Model Number Online

Find the model number on the nameplate of your outdoor unit and search for it online. Enter the brand name and model number into any search engine. The manufacturer specification sheet will clearly list the refrigerant type. This is the most definitive method if the label on the unit is damaged or illegible. You can also call the manufacturer customer service line with your model number and they will tell you the refrigerant type.

1. 1Go outside and find your AC condenser unit
2. 2Look for the nameplate or sticker on the side or back
3. 3Find the refrigerant type — R-22 means you have the banned refrigerant
4. 4If unreadable, check the install date — before 2010 means likely R22
5. 5If still unsure, search the model number online for specifications

What to Do If You Confirm R22

If your system uses R22, do not panic but do not wait either. Your system still works — but when it needs refrigerant or a major repair, the costs will be extreme because R22 is banned. The best move is to get a free assessment now while rebates are at their highest. NJ homeowners qualify for up to $16,000 in combined PSE&G and Mechanical Enterprise rebates. Call (862) 423-9396 or book online. See our complete guide to R22 replacement for full details.