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There’s a refrigerant shortage with no real end in sight.
Here’s what’s happening ⬇️
The Industry Is Running Out of Refrigerant
The HVAC supply chain is under pressure.
Last year, the EPA started the R-410A phase-out. Starting this December, it’s illegal to install any system that uses it.
So suppliers offloaded old inventory—and fast.
Now the approved refrigerants are R-454B and R-32:
- R-32 is only used by one brand (Goodman)
- Everyone else is shifting to R-454B refrigerant
The problem? Supply isn’t keeping up with demand.
Here’s why that’s a big deal:
- AC units ship with refrigerant inside
- Installers also need extra canisters to recharge systems
- No refrigerant = no install—it’s like selling a car without gas
And that’s what makes this refrigerant shortage a real threat to HVAC businesses heading into peak season.
Why the Shortage?
Depends who you ask.
Some say it’s a canister shortage. Steel and aluminum supplies are inconsistent, and that affects how much can actually be distributed.
Others blame tariffs. New trade restrictions have disrupted chemical imports from countries like China, where much of the refrigerant manufacturing happens.
Still others believe the real issue is underestimating demand. Manufacturers weren’t ready for the R-410A phase-out, and production of R-454B refrigerant simply isn’t where it needs to be.
What we know for sure is this:
- The switch officially happened in January
- The old refrigerants are banned for new installs
- The new ones are limited and expensive
We’re five months in. And many HVAC pros are heading into the hottest months of the year without enough product to get the job done.
Prices Are Climbing—Fast
This shortage isn’t just inconvenient. It’s expensive.
In some areas, the wholesale price of R-454B has already doubled. Contractors are reporting inflated quotes, tighter margins, and more customer delays.
Some suppliers are even limiting how many cylinders you can buy per week.
And with new units requiring specific refrigerants, you can’t just swap products out. It’s not plug-and-play.
That means:
- More canceled installations
- More frustrated customers
- More pressure on techs and sales teams
It’s a ripple effect that could hit smaller HVAC companies hardest.
What About Retrofitting?
It’s not an option for most.
Older systems that used R-410A aren’t compatible with R-454B refrigerant. The pressures, oil types, and safety ratings are all different.
Retrofitting typically voids warranties, increases liability, and can compromise performance.
So unless you’re doing a full system replacement, you’re stuck.
And if you’re doing a replacement? You’d better make sure the refrigerant is in stock—because lead times are stretching into weeks.
What to Watch
The HVAC industry moves in refrigerant cycles:
- R-22 to R-410A (10–15 years ago)
- R-410A to R-454B and R-32 (now)
But this transition is different—faster, stricter, and less prepared.
We’re seeing:
- Accelerated government regulations
- Low visibility on long-term supply
- A lack of coordination between manufacturers and contractors
It’s a mess. And there’s no quick fix.
What You Should Do Now
If you’re in HVAC, here’s how to stay ahead of the curve:
- Forecast your inventory: Look at your install schedule and order refrigerant now
- Understand brand compatibility: Know whether your units use R-454B or R-32
- Educate your customers: Be upfront about delays and costs
- Stay updated: The EPA, AHRI, and distributor bulletins are your friends
And most importantly:
- Don’t wait until summer peaks to react
If you’re relying on the same playbook you used during the R-22 phase-out, you’re going to fall behind. This isn’t a slow fade—it’s a hard stop.
Final Thought
This refrigerant shortage is bigger than a product delay—it’s a business disruptor. It’s exposing how fragile the HVAC supply chain really is and how fast policy can change the game.
Smart operators aren’t just waiting it out. They’re adapting now.
Because if you don’t plan around this refrigerant transition, someone else will.
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