Refrigerant recharge costs $100–$800+ for standard systems. For older R-22 systems, the refrigerant itself can cost $500–$2,000 before any mechanical repair begins - and most warranty plans won't cover it.
R-22 vs. R-410A - The Phaseout Problem
R-22 (Freon) - Pre-2010 systems
EPA halted production/import in January 2020. Prices now $50–$150/lb vs. $5–$15/lb historically. Recharge can cost $500–$2,000.
R-410A (Puron) - 2010–present systems
Lower cost, more available. Standard for most HVAC systems installed over the last 15 years.
R-454B / R-32 - Newer systems
New refrigerants phasing in under newer EPA regulations. Still rare in residential HVAC.
Who Covers Refrigerant
AHS
Included
Refrigerant recharge included in standard coverage - the clearest differentiator for older systems.
AFC Home Club
Varies by tier
Coverage depends on plan tier; verify before purchasing.
Most others
Excluded or sub-capped
Refrigerant excluded or sub-capped at $50–$150 - not enough for R-22 recharge.
What to Do with an R-22 System
If you own a pre-2010 HVAC system:
Prioritize AHS
AHS includes refrigerant recharge - the clear choice if you have an R-22 system.
Consider proactive replacement
If your R-22 system is showing age, proactive replacement avoids the R-22 refrigerant cost trap entirely.
Get a leak test
A pre-coverage HVAC inspection documents refrigerant levels, preventing a pre-existing condition denial.
Pre-existing and refrigerant: Low refrigerant is sometimes cited as a pre-existing condition if it existed before coverage started. Get an HVAC inspection at or before policy start to document refrigerant levels - this removes the ambiguity that companies exploit.