What refrigerant was commonly used in older HVAC systems but is now being phased out?

The refrigerant commonly used in older HVAC systems that is now being phased out is R-22, also known as Freon. This refrigerant has been widely used for residential and commercial air conditioning systems for several decades. However, R-22 contains hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which have been found to deplete the ozone layer and contribute to environmental issues, leading to its classification as a substance to be phased out.

As part of international agreements, such as the Montreal Protocol, there has been a concerted effort to reduce and eventually eliminate the usage of HCFCs. The production and import of R-22 have already been banned in many countries, and the phase-out process has prompted manufacturers and consumers to transition to more environmentally friendly alternatives, like R-410A and R-32, which do not have the same ozone-depleting potential. This transition not only benefits the environment but also aligns with new regulations aiming for sustainable practices in HVAC systems.