Carrier R22 Compressor for Window Air Conditioners: Understanding Its Role and the R22 Phase-Out

f you own an older Carrier, Condura, or Kelvinator window air conditioning unit that uses R22 refrigerant, you may have encountered the need for a replacement compressor — such as the Compressor QK134KDA 60Hz for 1HP R22 systems available here. But before you install or replace an R22 compressor, it’s important to understand what R22 refrigerant is, why it’s being phased out globally, and what that means for your air conditioner’s future performance and maintenance.

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🌀 What Is R22 Refrigerant?

R22, also known by the brand name Freon, is a type of hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) refrigerant that was widely used in air conditioning systems for decades due to its reliable cooling properties. It was once the standard refrigerant in many residential and commercial HVAC systems.

🌍 Why R22 Is Being Phased Out

Despite its historical use, R22 has significant environmental drawbacks:

- Ozone Depletion: R22 contains chlorine, which contributes to the breakdown of the Earth’s ozone layer — the protective shield that filters harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. 

- Global Warming Potential (GWP): R22 has a relatively high GWP, meaning it can trap heat in the atmosphere much more effectively than carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change. 

For these reasons, the production and import of new R22 refrigerant have been banned in many parts of the world. For example, in the United States, new R22 production and import were phased out completely by January 1, 2020; only recycled or reclaimed R22 can now be used to service existing systems.

Internationally, agreements like the Montreal Protocol have driven similar phase-out schedules worldwide, with many countries setting their own legal deadlines for reducing and eventually eliminating HCFC use.

🛠️ Impacts on Compressors and Servicing Your Unit

Your Carrier R22 compressor plays a key role in the refrigeration cycle — compressing the refrigerant and enabling heat transfer so your air conditioner can cool effectively. However, as R22 becomes scarcer and more regulated:

- Servicing costs may increase because reclaimed R22 is limited and can be expensive.

- Finding replacement parts, including compressors and refrigerant, becomes harder as support for older systems declines.

- Long-term reliability may be affected if leaks occur and R22 isn’t easily available.

Many HVAC professionals recommend that owners of R22 systems consider transitioning to units that use modern, more eco-friendly refrigerants (like R410A, R32, or newer blends) when major components fail.

🔄 What You Can Do

If your existing R22 window AC still cools well and the compressor simply needs replacement, installing a genuine Carrier R22 compressor like the QK134KDA can extend the life of your current unit — but be mindful of:

- Refrigerant availability: R22 supplies are limited and may be costly.

- Environmental regulations: Continued use of R22 may be legally restricted where you live.

- Future upgrades: Modern systems with environmentally safer refrigerants are increasingly recommended.

Always work with a licensed HVAC technician when servicing refrigeration components. Handling refrigerants — especially phased-out types like R22 — requires professional tools and expertise to ensure safe and compliant operation.