Everything considered, what is the best choice for a new residential central A/C? R-22 or R-410a?

Answer 1

Don't be afraid to get the R-22 just because of the phaseout. R-22 will be around longer than this A/C you are buying now. Yes it may be more expensive down the road, but a properly installed unit barring any equipment malfunctions will run the entire life of the system and never need charged. A/C systems do not use refrigerant they leak it, so it cannot get low without a leak.

Also don't shy away from R-410A it is the future of A/C. Equipment is a little more expensive though. Piping must have a higher pressure rating because it runs higher operating pressures.

Personally I would go with a new R410A(puron) unit. Remember A/C systems prices have gone up because of the Energy rating standards are better, but that means it uses less energy to run so it is actually a good thing.

Answer 2

The best would be an R410A system. Equipment efficiencies are higher and it has 0 ozone depletion. There is PLENTY of R22 left-anybody tells you different is a load of crap. And they still make the equipment. You have the option of R22 or R410A. But in 2010, the phaseout of R22 will begin and in 2020 it will no longer be manufactured and I believe it will go up in price as R12 did when the Montreal Protocol banned making equipment using it (it used to be about $25 for 30lbs and now is over $800), and R410A will drop and even out. R410A is here to stay.
I do A/C for a living and have installed several R410A units, including my own house and a 60 ton chiller. The equipment cost over R22 is minimal to none. Yes, R410A is more expensive now but if you have a competent person installing your unit, you shouldn't have to worry about the cost of it because it shouldn't leak out.

Answer 3

If you can get it....r-22 is better, but it will cost you down the road if you need repair. r410a is fine, costs now, but takes awhile longer to do the same job as r22

Answer 4

R-22 but if you want one they are going fast.