The HVAC industry is currently grappling with an unprecedented a/c refrigerant shortage, a situation that has arisen due to new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations. Previously, most air-conditioning systems relied on R-22 and other refrigerants. These were phased out due to their ozone-depleting properties. The updated regulations mandate the use of lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants including R-32 and R-454B in new air conditioning systems.
Regulatory Shifts and Supply Chain Strain
The market experienced an unexpectedly high demand for R-454B. While the refrigerant was available, it could not meet the required market quantity as R-410 systems had a rapid changeover to R-454B systems. Gas manufacturers have since increased production to address the demand and believe the market is stabilizing. The cylinders used to transport the gas, particularly 20-gallon cylinders, also saw a surge in demand. The cylinder orders were initially difficult to fulfill. Manufacturers have increased their capacity to bridge this gap.
Impact of Summer Heat
The shortage is further exacerbated by increasingly hotter weather. As homeowners and businesses seek to replace outdated systems to combat extreme summer heat, compliant and readily-available systems become scarce and, therefore, expensive.
The Risks of Unauthorized Refrigerant Blends
Some individuals may consider blending refrigerants to create R-454B; however, this practice is strongly discouraged. R-454B is patented by Chemours and Honeywell. Unauthorized production through blending R-32 and R-1234yf is patent infringement. Furthermore, the precise formula for the blend means that any haphazard mixture could be inaccurate. An incorrect blend ratio could lead to system failure. Such field mixtures would also likely void existing system warranties.
Similarly, substituting other refrigerants for R-454B is not permissible. Daiken has issued a statement clarifying that “Using R-32 in an R-454B unit is not only against manufacturers’ recommendations, due to differences in their chemical compositions and operating characteristics, it is also illegal. Unless an alternative has been approved by EPA’s Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program (and the necessary system modifications have been made), each HVAC unit is designed for a specific refrigerant, and using a different refrigerant can lead to malfunctions or damages.”
The Future of the Shortage and Alternative Solutions
The duration of the current a/c refrigerant shortage remains uncertain. However 90 or 100-pound cylinders of R-454B may be an option in your area and can be refilled. Their transport between worksites may pose logistical challenges.
Through the end of 2025, technicians are permitted to install older surplus systems that utilize refrigerants with a GWP of 700 or higher. These systems will eventually become obsolete, with newer systems featuring lower GWP refrigerants offering reduced ozone-depleting and negative emission properties.
Market Adjustment and Supply Chain Recovery
Despite the increased efforts to fill R-454B demand, installers in some markets may be unable to offer R-454B units. This will be the case until the manufacturers have fully met the market demand. If alternative HVAC units are needed right away, it is advised by the industry to consider R-32 systems or install a surplus R-410 system before the year’s end.
Luckily, eTrapp can work on any system that produces condensation. This means systems that are decades old and brand new can benefit from this condensate treatment system. Get in touch with the eTrapp Team to learn more about what eTrapp can do for you.