No, not anyone can buy R-22 refrigerant legally, it is restricted to certified professionals due to environmental regulations. R-22 is an HCFC refrigerant that depletes ozone and has high global warming potential, and under EPA Section 608 in the United States, you must have EPA 608 Type II or Universal certification to purchase R-22 in cylinders over 2 pounds. Sales are limited to certified technicians and companies that handle refrigerants, and sellers are required to verify certification. Production and import of virgin R-22 was banned from January 1, 2020, so only recovered, recycled, and reclaimed R-22 is legally available, making it scarce and expensive. General consumers cannot walk into a store and buy a large cylinder without certification, though some small cans under 2 pounds may have been sold historically for specific uses, current regulations have tightened. It is illegal to intentionally vent R-22, and improper handling can cause fines. For homeowners, you cannot legally recharge your own system, you must hire a certified HVAC technician to find leaks, recover refrigerant, and recharge. So purchase is restricted to professionals to prevent environmental harm and ensure safe handling.
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