If your A/C is more than eight years of age, it might use an older coolant fluid. R22 refrigerant, also known as Freon®, is being a part of a federally regulated R22 phaseout. That means any air conditioner repairs may get more expensive.
All air conditioner units contain cooling fluid. Older systems contain R-22, while newer systems usually use R-410A. Sometimes R-22 is called R22 or the brand name, Freon®.
Many years ago, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency determined causes ozone layer depletion. So the government created a phaseout plan for R22. Starting in January 2020, refrigerant suppliers cannot produce or sell Freon®. The only R22 available will be recovered, recycled, or reclaimed supplies. While there is a good stockpile of R-22 refrigerant now, that may change as time goes on.