Could an expert give an unbiased evaluation of a supposed refrigerant replacement for banned R22 called R22a manufactured by EnviroSafe. It is reported as a propane based product that works better than R22. Some reviews make a big deal out of it being propane, but I have propane used all over my house anyway. What is the problem with modifying an unbanned product to work in a heatpump that requires a banned product?

Hi Jess. I haven't come across this product as of yet. However, R22 is not banned. It is still legal to purchase and use (if you are licensed in refrigerants.) The manufactering of R22 components was banned as of 2010, but they won't stop making the actuall R22 refrigerant until 2020. You can still legally buy anything rated for R22, just a matter of how long the supply will last. I would suggest using R22, it's a bit more expensive since the new regulations, but still not to bad.

Without more knowledge of the new refrigerant you are asking about, I would not feel comfortable telling you to use it. I would hate to see you lose a compressor, or damage other components of your heat pump system due to use of a different refrigerant than the system is actually designed for. Not sure who is telling you R22 refrigerant is banned, but that is just not the case, at least not yet.

Wish I had a better answer for you. I would suggest trying to get hold of the EnviroSafe company, and asking them your concerns.