What Is Freon? Understanding Its Role in Cooling and Why It's Being Replaced

By: GNV Heating and Air Conditioning

When it comes to cooling your home, car, or office, Freon was once the industry standard. But what exactly is Freon, and why is it no longer commonly used?

In this article, we’ll explore what Freon is, how it works in cooling systems, its environmental impact, and the modern alternatives that are taking its place.

What Exactly Is Freon?

Freon refers to a group of refrigerant gases that were widely used in air conditioning and refrigeration systems. It’s actually a trademarked name, but it became the general term for several types of chemicals used to cool air by transferring heat.

One of the most widely used types of Freon was R-22, a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) that helped power millions of cooling units for decades.

How Does Freon Function?

To understand what Freon does, think about how your air conditioner or fridge keeps things cool. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the process:

1. Compression: Freon gas is compressed, raising its temperature and pressure.

2. Condensation: The hot gas flows through coils and releases heat, turning into a liquid.

3. Evaporation: Inside the system, the liquid evaporates, absorbing heat from the air and cooling the space.

4. Repetition: This cycle runs continuously to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Freon’s effectiveness in this heat-exchange process is why it was so heavily relied on for so long.

Why Was Freon So Popular?

For many years, Freon was the top choice for air conditioners, refrigerators, and automotive cooling systems. It was easy to use, efficient, and compatible with most system designs.

When someone asked, “What is Freon used for?”, the answer was simple: nearly every major cooling appliance, from home HVAC systems to vehicle AC units.

Is Freon Still Being Used?

While Freon is still found in older cooling units, it's no longer used in new systems. Due to its harmful impact on the ozone layer, Freon (particularly R-22) has been phased out in favor of more environmentally friendly refrigerants.

If your system was built before 2010, there's a good chance it still runs on Freon—but that’s changing fast.

Why Is Freon Harmful?

The issue with Freon lies in its chemical makeup. It contains chlorine, which, when released into the atmosphere, breaks down ozone molecules. The ozone layer protects us from dangerous ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

Ozone depletion has been linked to:

• Increased rates of skin cancer and eye damage

• Climate change and global warming

• Harm to plants, animals, and marine life

Because of this, global efforts have restricted and banned Freon under agreements like the Montreal Protocol.

What Replaces Freon Today?

Thankfully, modern refrigerants are both efficient and safer for the planet. Common Freon alternatives include:

• R-410A (also known as Puron): Now the standard in most residential AC systems.

• R-134a: Widely used in car air conditioners and some refrigerators.

• R-32: A newer, low-GWP refrigerant that’s energy-efficient and ozone-safe.

These alternatives do not contain chlorine and are compliant with modern environmental standards.

Can You Still Use a System That Runs on Freon?

Yes, but it’s getting harder. If your system still uses R-22 Freon, it may still function, but getting Freon refills is becoming expensive and limited. Eventually, servicing these systems won’t be worth the cost.

Your main options are:

• Keep the system running (if it’s in good condition)

• Retrofit the system to use a different refrigerant

• Replace the entire unit with a new model that uses an approved refrigerant

Warning Signs of Low Freon Levels

If your AC isn't cooling properly, low refrigerant could be the reason. Here are some common signs:

• Air from vents isn’t cold

• Ice builds up on AC coils

• The unit takes longer to cool the space

• Hissing or bubbling noises near the unit

If you notice any of these symptoms, have an HVAC professional check your refrigerant levels and inspect for leaks.

Why Maintenance Is Essential for Freon-Based Systems

If your system still uses Freon, proper maintenance is more important than ever. Leaks not only reduce performance but also release harmful chemicals into the environment.

Regular servicing can:

• Prevent refrigerant leaks

• Improve system efficiency

• Extend the life of your AC

• Lower energy bills

Scheduling yearly HVAC inspections is the best way to ensure safe, efficient operation.

The Future of Cooling: Eco-Friendly Refrigerants

The HVAC industry is rapidly moving toward greener cooling solutions. Researchers and manufacturers are focusing on low-impact refrigerants that:

• Don’t harm the ozone layer

• Have a lower global warming potential

• Provide high energy efficiency

These eco-conscious options are already standard in many new systems and will soon be universal.

Final Thoughts: What Is Freon?

To sum up, Freon is a refrigerant gas that once powered most of our cooling systems. While it was effective, we now understand the damage it can cause to the environment. That’s why the world is shifting toward safer, smarter alternatives.

If your current AC or refrigerator still uses Freon, now is the time to plan for a switch. Upgrading to a modern system helps you save money, reduce emissions, and stay ahead of future regulations.

Need professional help with your Freon-based system or AC upgrade?
Reach out to GNV Heating and Air Conditioning—your trusted HVAC experts for environmentally friendly, energy-efficient cooling solutions.