R-22 Legacy Systems — Repair vs Replace Decision

R-22 phase-out — Korea MOE full ban by 2030

Check: **Current (2026)**: R-22 cannot be used for new install in Korea, only existing repair, only used/recycled R-22. Price = ₩50k/kg (5x vs 2020). **Identify**: ① Nameplate 'R-22'. ② Pre-2010. ③ Liquid line 1/4-1/2 with 9mm insulation (R-410A is 13mm). ④ Not R-410A compatible (compressor/pressure ratings differ). **Fate**: ① Repair = 1L charge = ₩50k, escalates if leak. ② Replace whole system = R-32 = ₩600k-1.5M (residential).

What to do: **Decision matrix**: ① **Compressor OK + 1st leak** = repair (1 yr more, 1L+leak fix ≈ ₩100k). ② **Compressor OK + repeated leak** = replace (5 yr accumulated repair = new). ③ **Compressor dead** = replace (R-22 compressor alone ≈ ₩400k + labor > new system). ④ **Customer staying 5+ yrs** = replace (R-32 efficiency + 1/3 GWP). ⑤ **Temporary 1-2 yr** = repair. **No drop-in replacement** = R-407C/R-422D compatible but Korean GWP rejection. R-32 direct sub = NO (compressor/system swap required).