R-454B Shortage Impacts HVAC Contractors Across Texas
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R-454B Shortage Impacts HVAC Contractors Across Texas
The HVAC industry is currently facing a significant shortage of R-454B refrigerant — the new standard for many residential and commercial systems. This shortage has already caused delays in installations and repairs, as well as increased prices and frustration among contractors across Texas and beyond.
What’s Causing the Shortage?
The shortage stems from multiple supply chain constraints, including:
- Limited production capacity of R-454B
- Shortages of cylinders used for safe packaging and transport
- A sharp and unexpected spike in demand
While some growing pains were anticipated, the transition to R-454B moved faster than most suppliers and manufacturers predicted. Forecasting models were built around a gradual shift — but instead, the market saw a swift adoption, overwhelming the supply chain.
As a result, some contractors have begun to purchase and stockpile R-454B when available, which further intensifies the strain on supply and availability for others in the field.
What’s Being Done About It?
Fortunately, manufacturers and distributors are responding:
🌍 Expanding access to global supply chains
📈 Increasing hiring by up to 30% in key production areas
🤝 Working directly with contractors to improve forecasting
🏭 New suppliers entering the R-454B market to expand capacity
The focus has shifted toward collaboration. Many in the supply chain are making a conscious effort to work closer than ever with contractors to ensure solutions are being built with the end user in mind.
Looking Ahead
Distributors are hopeful that supply will begin to stabilize by mid-July — just in time for the heart of peak season. The industry also recognizes this challenge as an opportunity to improve long-term forecasting and build stronger lines of communication between manufacturers, suppliers, and contractors.
Until then, suppliers and manufacturers are encouraging contractors to stay in touch, ask questions, and rely on them for support and updates.
📣 PHCC-TX will continue to monitor this issue closely and share timely updates with our members. If you're being impacted, let us know — your feedback helps shape better solutions for everyone.
