If you own cooling devices that use either R22 or R407C, this article is for you. We compare these two refrigerants in performance, cost, and safety. You will also know the right way to finish refrigerant replacement. All the things you may want to know are covered, so you can quickly pick the better one for your equipment.
What Are R22 and R407C?
Let’s start with the basics.
R22: The Old, Outdated Refrigerant
R22 is a classic refrigerant that’s been used for decades.
For years, it was the standard for home ACs, heat pumps, and refrigeration systems. And it works steadily, and older equipment was built just for it.
However, there’s a huge problem: R22 damages the ozone layer. So, worldwide rules have phased out all new production of R22. Today, only recycled leftover R22 is sold, and it’s extremely expensive and hard to find.
R407C: The Best R22 Replacement
R407C was made specifically to replace R22.
It’s an eco-friendly blended refrigerant with zero ozone-damaging potential. It’s fully legal, widely available, and designed to replace R22 in existing systems. Though it doesn’t match very perfectly, it’s the most reliable for most old R22 units.
Key Differences: R22 vs R407C
We don’t need complex lab data. What we care about is what changes for our daily use, expenses, and equipment. And here’s what matters most:
Cooling Performance
R22 used to be the baseline for cooling power, and R407C runs only about 5% lower in cooling capacity.
In practical home or business use, you will not notice a difference in cooling temperature and performance.
Energy Use
R22 and R407C are nearly the same in energy use. R407C won’t make your electric bill go up, and you’ll get the same efficiency as your old R22.
System Compatibility
R407C works well with most original R22 equipment, but not with direct adding and replacement. About this point, we’ll cover it in detail in the following content.
Safety
Both refrigerants have ASHRAE34 A1 classification: non-toxic, non-flammable, and completely safe for normal use. All risks come from improper installation, rather than the refrigerant itself.
How To Retrofit
You can’t directly swap R22 for R407C, and this is the most important part. If you get this wrong, you’ll ruin your AC compressor. That means you cannot just drain old R22 and pour in R407C.
Here’s why:
- R22 uses mineral oil to lubricate the compressor.
- R407C requires POE synthetic oil
- The two oils never mix.
If you skip the oil change, your compressor will soon burn out. Then I will tell you the correct retrofit steps:
- Fully remove and recover all old R22 from the system
- Completely flush the entire cooling line system
- Replace all mineral oil with new POE oil
- Review and exchange worn seals or gaskets
- Pull a full vacuum on the system
- Charge R407C properly
And there’s one more thing you need to remember: always hire a certified HVAC technician to do it.
Which One Costs Less?
Money is usually the biggest decision-maker, and there differencce is huge.
R22 Cost
- Only recycled is available
- Extremely expensive: $80–$150 per kg
- Hard to source legally
- Long-term use is not cost-effective
R407C Cost
- Quite available
- Very affordable: $30–$60 per kg
- Totally legal
- Cheaper for long-term
For most users, R407C is the better financial choice.
Pros & Cons of R407C Refrigerant
Since R22 refrigerant has been phased out and no longer offers long-term value, we will focus on the pros and cons of its replacement, R407C refrigerant. Then you will know whether it is right for you.
Pros
- Legal and eco-friendly
- Cooling is nearly the same as R22
- Non-toxic, non-flammable
- Affordable, easy to find
- Works well with most old R22 systems
Cons
- There is no direct swap
- Slight temperature glide (normal for blended refrigerants)
- Still has global warming potential
- Must be operated by a professional
Conclusion
All in all, R407C refrigerant is the most reliable and affordable replacement for R22 refrigerant. It can achieve the same cooling performance as before, meet legal rules, and fit your budget.
Just remember one thing: never skip the oil change and system flush. Hire a professional and your AC will keep running for years.
FAQ
Is R22 Refrigerant still legal to use?
No, R22 is illegal to produce or import. You can only use recycled R22, but it’s not a long-term solution.
Can I mix R22 and R407C?
No. Mixing them damages your system and makes the refrigerant unrecyclable.
Will R407C Refrigerant make my AC blow colder air?
No, it cools almost exactly like R22. You won’t feel a difference.
Do I need to replace my AC if it uses R22 Refrigerant?
No. You can retrofit it to R407C.
Is R407C safe for my home?
Yes. It’s A1 rated. So it is completely safe for home use.
You may also find this related blog post very useful:
Which gas is used in air conditioners?
What is refrigerant, the-ultimate-guide?
About The Author
Evan Wang
I am Evan Wang, the General Manager, Marketing Director, and SEO Expert at Sunnyda Cold Room. I have over 20 years of experience in the refrigeration industry, and my expertise is in commercial refrigeration solutions.
I’d be delighted to share practical ideas about refrigeration products, project selection, export trade, SEO, and marketing.
Let’s connect!
