R-454B Refrigerant Shortage and Price Surge: Navigating the 2025 HVAC Crisis
- Joshua Griffin
- 1 hour ago
- 2 min read
The HVAC industry is facing a significant challenge in 2025 due to a shortage and price surge of R-454B refrigerant. As the mandated replacement for R-410A, R-454B's limited availability and escalating costs are impacting contractors, distributors, and homeowners alike.​HVAC School+3ACHR News+3LinkedIn+3
Understanding the R-454B Shortage
R-454B, an A2L refrigerant with a low global warming potential (GWP), has become the standard following the phase-out of R-410A under the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act. However, the transition has been anything but smooth.​Facilities Dive
The shortage is primarily attributed to a lack of available cylinders required for storing and transporting A2L refrigerants. Manufacturers like Honeywell have reported that domestic production cannot meet the unprecedented demand, leading them to source supplies internationally, which introduces additional complications. ​Cooling Post+4ACHR News+4Home Pros News+4
Price Increases and Tariffs
In response to the supply constraints and increased costs, Honeywell announced a 42% surcharge on all R-454B orders placed on or after February 15, 2025. This surcharge is in addition to a $4 per pound price increase implemented on April 9, 2025. ​Daikin Comfort Technologies Northeast+6ACHR News+6Home Pros News+6
Chemours, another major supplier, followed suit with a $2.85 per pound increase on all open R-454B orders expected to ship starting May 1, 2025. ​Home Pros News+1Cooling Post+1
These price hikes are further exacerbated by tariffs on imported goods, particularly from China, where tariffs can reach up to 145%. ​Home Pros News
Impact on the HVAC Industry
Contractors are experiencing significant challenges due to the shortage and price increases. Some suppliers are limiting R-454B sales to customers purchasing complete HVAC systems, leaving independent contractors struggling to obtain the refrigerant. ​ACHR News
Prices for R-454B cylinders have skyrocketed, with reports of costs ranging from $700 to over $2,000 per cylinder.  Lead times for delivery have extended to several months, disrupting installation schedules and project planning. ​Spectrum News
Exploring Alternatives
In light of the R-454B challenges, some in the industry are considering alternatives like R-32, another A2L refrigerant. R-32 is currently more readily available and less expensive, with prices around $250 to $300 per 20-pound cylinder. ​Cooling Post+2ACHR News+2Reddit+2Daikin Comfort Technologies Northeast+1ACHR News+1
However, transitioning to R-32 requires careful consideration of equipment compatibility and safety regulations. It's essential for contractors to assess whether their systems can accommodate R-32 and to stay informed about any regulatory changes.​Daikin Comfort Technologies Northeast+1ACHR News+1
Looking Ahead
Industry leaders remain cautiously optimistic that the R-454B supply issues are temporary. Executives from companies like Lennox and Watsco anticipate that the market will stabilize by the end of the second quarter of 2025. ​Home Pros News
In the meantime, contractors and distributors are advised to plan proactively, explore alternative refrigerants where feasible, and communicate transparently with clients about potential delays and cost implications.