R-22
CHClF₂R-22 (chlorodifluoromethane, HCFC-22) is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon refrigerant widely used in residential and commercial air conditioning systems since the 1950s. As an HCFC compound, R-22 contributes to ozone layer depletion and has a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 1,810. Under the Montreal Protocol and EPA regulations, R-22 production was phased out in the United States on January 1, 2020. While existing R-22 systems can continue to operate using recycled or reclaimed refrigerant, many facilities are transitioning to approved alternatives such as R-410A, R-407C, or newer low-GWP options. Leak detection for R-22 remains critical for regulatory compliance, preventing ozone-depleting emissions, and maintaining system efficiency in legacy HVAC equipment.
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Key Information
Essential safety and exposure information for R-22
Health Effects
- Inhalation of high concentrations can cause dizziness
- loss of coordination
- and asphyxiation. Can cause cardiac sensitization at high exposure levels.
Common Sources
- Legacy HVAC systems
- older commercial refrigeration
- retrofit applications
Exposure Limits
- OSHA PEL
- 1,000 ppm
- NIOSH REL
- 1,000 ppm (ST 1,250)
- ACGIH TLV
- 1,000 ppm
Regulatory Status
- EPA Classification
- Class II ODS (HCFC)
- ASHRAE Safety Group
- A1 (low toxicity, non-flammable)
- GWP (AR5)
- 1,810
- ODP
- 0.055
- Phase-out Status
- Production ended January 1, 2020
- Current Status
- Service-only using recycled or reclaimed refrigerant
Detection Requirements
- Sensor Technology
- Infrared (NDIR)
- Detection Range
- 0-1,000 ppm typical
- Response Time
- <30 seconds (T90)
- Calibration Frequency
- Annual recommended
- Cross-Sensitivity
- May respond to other halogenated refrigerants
Related Applications
Industries and environments where R-22 detection is critical
Chiller Rooms
Ammonia, R-410A, and A2L refrigerant detection for central plant mechanical rooms and HVAC equipment areas
Data Centers
Refrigerant leaks from cooling infrastructure can create asphyxiation risks, while hydrogen off‑gassing from battery systems can form an explosive hazard.
Detection Solutions
Sensors and detectors for R-22 monitoring
cGas Detector VRF IR Refrigerant Transmitter
An aesthetic, non-dispersive infrared refrigerant gas detector for acute leak detection in modern energy-efficient buildings utilizing Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) HVAC systems.
cGas-SC Self-Contained Controller
A self contained controller with up to 3 gas channels, Plug & Play Smart Sensor Technology and configurable logic control and priority settings. Offers superior user customization and reliable gas detection performance for monitoring many gases.
cGas Detector IR Refrigerant Transmitter
Non-dispersive infrared refrigerant gas detector with accurate, low level leak detection, available with analog output or BACnet® or Modbus® output and Plug & Play Smart Sensor Technology.
FCS Multi Channel System Controllers
High performance controller with logic and priority settings for monitoring toxic, combustible and refrigerant gases with versatile control functionality. Available with Modbus® or BACnet® communication with BAS, supports 4-20 mA and Modbus® driven VFDs.