F-GAS REGULATIONS

R22 has been banned. Does your system still use it?

If your air conditioning or refrigeration system was installed before 2004, it may still contain R22 refrigerant — a gas that has been illegal to top up in the UK since 1 January 2015. Continuing to run an R22 system is risky, expensive, and now non-compliant with UK F-gas regulations.

2004
New R22 equipment banned

No new systems using R22 could be installed.

2010
Virgin R22 banned

Only recycled R22 could be used for top-ups.

2015
Full R22 ban

Topping up R22 systems with any refrigerant — recycled or otherwise — became illegal in the UK. If yours leaks, it can't be refilled.

Check what's in my system Or call 01326 755432
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If you still have R22

  • A single leak means the system can't be legally repaired — only replaced or retrofitted.
  • Insurance claims can be refused on systems running banned refrigerants.
  • Energy efficiency is typically 25–35% worse than modern alternatives.
  • Carbon footprint per kg is roughly 1,810 × CO₂ — modern R32 is 675.
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Your options

  • Full system replacement — usually the best long-term value, with up to 60% lower running costs.
  • Drop-in retrofit — replace R22 with a compatible blend (R407C, R422D, R438A). Requires a system flush, new oil, and revised settings.
  • Free site survey from ASR — we'll check your refrigerant, condition and efficiency, and give you a written report with options + costs.
Modern refrigerants we install
R32AC systems · GWP 675
R134aRefrigeration · GWP 1,430
R290Hydrocarbon · GWP 3
R744CO₂ · GWP 1