Do you know about the different types of HVAC refrigerants? Many people aren’t aware. But the HVAC industry is in the midst of a substantial transition that affects everyone who owns an HVAC system. This transition has been far from smooth, and the road has been much bumpier than anyone in the industry expected. As we move toward more environmentally friendly alternatives under the AIM Act and Kigali Amendment, two refrigerants are in the middle of it all—R-454B and R-32.
Both are considered next-generation refrigerants with lower GWP (Global Warming Potential). However, there are massive issues with availability, performance, and practicality. These issues are disrupting the HVAC industry, all the way from contractors and manufacturers to homebuilders and homeowners.
So, what’s going on, and how can you limit its impact on you? Let’s break it down.
What Is the Purpose of the AIM Act and the Kigali Amendment?
The AIM Act and the Kigali Amendment focus on reducing hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which have been identified as influential contributors to global warming. The AIM Act authorizes the EPA (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to regulate HFCs in many applications, including HVAC refrigerants. On the other hand, the Kigali Amendment is an international agreement to reduce HFC consumption and production.
Let’s take a closer look at the two refrigerants at the center of attention.
What Is R-454B?
R-454B is a low-GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerant blend intended to replace the popular R-410A used in many residential and light-duty commercial systems. Its GWP is around 466, while R-410A’s GWP clocks in at a whopping 2088. There’s no question that R-454B is a significant improvement over its predecessor. Nevertheless, it is not a pure refrigerant but rather a blend of R-32 and R-1234yf. This means more product is required per system. It is more complex to service, and it does not perform as efficiently as R-32 systems. R-454B is also mildly flammable (A2L), requiring additional safety considerations during handling.
What Is R-32?
R-32 is a single-component refrigerant with a GWP of 675. It is slightly higher than R-454B’s 466 but still significantly improved over R-410A’s 2088. Despite its marginally higher GWP, R-32 offers better overall performance than R-454B, including:
- Higher efficiency
- Lower refrigerant volume required per system
- Easier to service with
- Greater availability
- Lower cost
Due to these advantages, R-32 has been widely adopted in many countries and is quickly gaining momentum in the United States.
This Sounds Great! So Why Is the Industry in Turmoil?
Here’s where things get messy. Many companies and builders chose R-454B as their refrigerant of choice because it is the most environmentally friendly option. However, it is nearly impossible to find right now. If you can get your hands on it, prices are astronomical – up to $900 per jug. This is compared to R-32, which can be as low as $200 or less.
The extreme shortage and outrageous prices created major supply chain disruptions that trickle down to the end consumer:
- Two major manufacturers, Carrier and Trane, heavily committed to R-454B, are being struck by the shortage. Their production and delivery schedules are backed up, leaving contractors in the lurch.
- HVAC companies and contractors are pivoting, hoping manufacturers with R-32-based systems can bridge the gap. Otherwise, they are at a standstill.
- New installations and replacements for residential and commercial systems are experiencing significant delays and price surges, and customer frustration is understandably mounting.
What Does This Mean for Homeowners and Contractors?
If you plan a new installation or replace your outdated unit, this transition will likely affect you. Here’s what you can expect regarding HVAC refrigerants.
- If your HVAC company uses systems relying on R-454B, expect longer wait times and potentially higher prices.
- Keep an eye on refrigerant pricing fluctuations. These will impact installation and repair quotes. If you can, wait until prices are lower.
Talk with your HVAC professional about whether they offer R-32 compatible systems. This option can save you time, money, and hassle.
If you are a contractor, it is time to reevaluate your supply chain and workflow. It is impossible to say how long there will be an R-454B shortage, and progress can’t come to a complete halt until the situation is resolved. Flexibility and supplier diversity will be key as the market continues to shift.
Where Do We Go From Here?
The transition from high-GWP refrigerants to environmentally friendly options is moving in the right direction. However, we will likely see industry-wide shifts in equipment strategy, manufacturer partnerships, and installation planning to accommodate the high costs and limited supply.
Let Harrington Air Conditioning Find the Best Option for You
We hope you learned a lot regarding HVAC refrigerants. Whether you are a contractor, homeowner, or business owner, Harrington Air Conditioning has been the most trusted HVAC professional in the Tampa Bay area since 1979. We closely monitor the refrigerant landscape and go the extra mile to offer the best options possible for your comfort, efficiency, and budget. Contact us today, and let us handle all of your HVAC needs.
