A large installed base equipment still uses R-22, so once virgin supplies are exhausted, reclaimed refrigerant will be the only source available.

If customers are seeking a more environmentally friendly alternative to HCFCs, there are many options available.

According to a poll, the majority of contractors are having no difficulty obtaining either virgin or reclaimed R-22.

Scaring consumers into buying a new cooling system is not helpful, particularly when contractors work hard to establish their reputations.

While some may be concerned over whether recovery and reclamation efforts will be sufficient to meet the industry’s needs going forward, reclaimers are adamant that R-22 is still widely available, affordable, and legal.

The rink at Mars Lakeview Arena in Duluth, Minnesota, maintained a full-size ice sheet with 1,750 pounds of R-22. The converted DX chiller system runs on a non-ozone depleting, low-GWP refrigerant , R-449A.

It seems that everyone wants to know more about what’s going on with the state of refrigerants in the U.S.

Will Gresham, executive vice president, Dynatemp Intl., said the company plans to focus on its revamped reclamation program, partner wholesalers, and education this year.

In Aspen Refrigerant’s booth, the message to the industry was quite clear: R-22 is readily available and will be legal to use, buy, and sell for years to come.