2 Ton Goodman HVAC with 15' of lines retrofitting R-22 to R-290

[bjr]

I can't read about this any more 'cause I'm just not getting the information I need. I need "boots on the ground" practical experience; "been there done that type" of advice. Can I drop in R290 (Propane) in my old r22 system? Has any one out there actually done this? Will the oil in the system be "Okay" or should I use something call Super Change #981. Okay the other is, it looks like I need to invest in a CO2 tank/regulator as well. Okay let me have it, what are you guys changing older systems with? bjr

 

[LS Tractor Owner]

Sorry, I can't reply to your question more than "I've heard of people doing that". I have never done it.

I have a question for you.... How do you like the Goodman unit? Does it work good (aside from current problem with R22)? Any other problems? I have been considering the unit for a possible upcoming project.

Which unit do you have? Just A/C or combi unit? Gas backup or electric if combi?

Never mind..... I just reread "15' of lines" .... I am assuming this is a split unit, not the self contained units.

Have you called Goodman tech support?

 

[bjr]

I like the Goodman condensing units just fine. It's the whole refrigerant name game that bothers me. The local service companies are worthless. The "Techs" they hire don't speak English. $150 lbs for the R22. I'm just not gonna have AC this year. Maybe a swamp cooler if I can find one. bjr

 

[2manyrocks]

Since you appear to have an older R22 split system with an A/C coil inside, the first concern I would have is the possibility of future refrigerant leaks inside the building when the new refrigerant is flammable. I assume you've already had some leaks or you wouldn't be looking to replace refrigerant.

Your money might be better invested in a newer system instead of trying to change refrigerant in an older system with the potential for more leaks and service calls.

DC inverter mini split systems are energy efficient and much quieter than older central units. They are very well suited to open floor plans where the air can circulate freely.

If you just need to get by with something to at least keep a smaller bedroom cool, the Midea U shape Inverter AC units are quiet, have a good efficiency rating for a window ac, and cool well. They are not like the old, noisy window AC units. They really are quiet. https://www.amazon.com/Midea-Invert...qid=1656094201&sprefix=mida+u,aps,1348&sr=8-7

 

[ponytug]

I have never used propane, so I can't answer your posted question.

You might want to shop around for your R-22; mail order is closer to $45-65/lb around here.

https://abilityrefrigerants.com/product/r22-refrigerant-5-lbs/

(Not endorsing them, just an example)
Generally R-410 is the recommended substitution, but requires some modifications to your system. I have had this done for several systems.

I would point out that propane is allowable as a replacement for R-22 only in refrigeration systems originally designed for flammable refrigerants. July 2, 2013: EPA Warns Against Use of Propane as R-22 Substitute

All the best,

Peter

 

[bjr]

Update: Okay, now there's something called "Bluon". Now, once again, all a I get is "Ain't never heard of that", when I ask around if anyone has actually used it. Suppose to be another "Drop-in", ($550 for a 30lb jug), refrigerant replacement for R-22. The local supplier says he's out and don't know if they'll even stock it when i comes available. The one older counterman, told me that just interferes, with selling complete whole HVAC units that use the newer refrigerants. I Just don't have the $10,000 for a new HVAC system. It looks like I'm down to swamp cooler or just sittin' on a bag of ice.

 

[LS Tractor Owner]

You could try one of these. They work exceptionally well. I purchased 2 from Costco, but they are available many places. HD and Lowes may have them or similar units.

Portable Air Conditioner | De'Longhi

Discover all the Portable Air Conditioners from De'Longhi. Choose among different models and power outputs and find the one suited for all your needs.

www.delonghi.com

 

[LS Tractor Owner]

And another option, the DIY minisplit systems.

The New MRCOOL DIY Is Engineered For Comfort

The MRCOOL DIY is the only truly do-it-yourself ductless mini-split. The MRCOOL DIY series heat pumps are affordable, efficient and easy to install HVAC solutions with a clean and subtle design.

mrcooldiy.com

A bit more expensive, but still reasonably affordable.

 

[2manyrocks]

24k mini split is going to be under $2,000 to buy if you can install it yourself. The DIY Mr. Cool units have precharged linesets that supposedly do not require pulling a vacuum to install. Mr. Cool also sells another version with linesets that do require pulling a vacuum to install. You need to be sure which version you're getting and to buy one that has sufficiently long linesets for your own situation.

Depending on your interior floorplan, you could also potentially use a couple of smaller mini splits to have better zone temperature control as well as better air flow distribution.

Or you can keep trying to patch leaks and paying for refrigerant.

 

[tractortroof]

R407C works very well. I have used it as a replacement for 7 years. Never had a compressor go out though they do recommend POE oil with it. 25 years experience.