The cost to convert a central air conditioner from R-22 to R-410A can range anywhere from $2,000 to over $4,500 in the New Jersey area.
The bottom line? If your AC unit is 8+ years old, it’s usually not worth the cost to convert and you should just replace the entire R-22 unit with an R-410A unit. In fact, we generally recommend against converting an R-22 unit to R-410A refrigerant.
So why is converting to R-410A so expensive? Well, it requires quite a bit of work and replacement parts to get the job done.
Let’s take a closer look at what this retrofit/conversion actually entails…
What does converting to R-410A entail?
Note: Only trust licensed and insured HVAC techs who are EPA-certified to handle/purchase refrigerant to complete a R-410A conversion. If not done properly, you could be spending lots of money on a unit that will die prematurely.
In order to convert an AC unit from R-22 to R-410A, you’ll need a professional to:
- Evacuate the entire AC (vacuum out all R-22 refrigerant)
- Flush out any trace of R-22 then wait for the system to dry completely. Sometimes, a tech may have to “flush” the system several times to ensure all R-22 is out of the system.
- Replace the compressor, accumulator and expansion valve with ones that can handle the higher temperature and pressure of R-410A refrigerant.
- In certain cases, the entire refrigerant lineset may need to be replaced with a new lineset
- Recharge the system with R-410A
- Test the system thoroughly to check for leaks and proper pressure levels
All in all, the 6 steps above can take 8+ hours. And when you add in the cost of labor for an 8-hour job plus the cost of replacement parts, you’re looking at a very expensive AC repair bill.
When you should replace instead of convert
If your AC is 8+ years old, you should probably just replace the entire unit with one that uses R-410A instead of spending money trying to convert the existing unit.
Why?
Well, air conditioners usually last 10–12 years. So if your AC is 8 or older, it’s likely nearing the end of its useful life. And pouring money into converting an aging unit is a waste of money.
You’d be better off paying the $4,600 to $9,000 it costs to have a new air conditioner installed.
Have questions about converting to R-410A or need a quote on a new system?
We’ll inspect your system and give you options that will restore your home’s comfort.