R22 Phase-out

R22 Phase-out: I received an e-mail from Dupont about the impending R22 phase-out. Basically it was an advertisement for a their drop-in replacement ISCEON M099. I did find it interesting however that they have it calculated that demand for R22 refrigerant will exceed virgin refrigerant supply of R22 by 27.5 million pounds per year over the next four years. Where is that refrigerant going to come from?

Dupont also said that R22 has risen in price by 500% since 2003. Are there speculators out there with a stockpile of R22? I did check the other day on the price of R22 vs M099 and R22 is still cheaper and in abundant supply. I do not see the need to start replacing it yet.

You know all of these blend refrigerants work. As long as they change state and pick up heat all of the blends I have tried work. Oh well that is just one more flavor to have on hand to be able to service equipment.