The HVAC industry is facing one of its most challenging transitions in recent memory. As part of a nationwide push to reduce environmental impact, the EPA has mandated the phaseout of R-410A refrigerant in favor of R-454B, a next-generation refrigerant with a significantly lower Global Warming Potential (GWP). While this change is designed to benefit the environment long-term, it’s creating immediate complications for homeowners and HVAC contractors alike.
Right now, the industry is experiencing a nationwide R-454B refrigerant shortage, not because the chemical itself is unavailable, but due to a lack of canisters needed to package and distribute it.
This bottleneck has driven prices sky-high, jumping from around $10 per pound to more than $70 in just a matter of weeks.
Many suppliers are now restricting access, limiting weekly purchases, or requiring equipment sales in exchange for limited refrigerant stock.
As prices soar and suppliers place strict limits on purchasing, many HVAC companies are struggling to meet customer demand. But Millian Aire AC & Heating is staying ahead. By securing large-volume supplies and implementing in-house solutions, we’ve built a buffer to keep our customers cool this summer.
This article will explain what’s behind the R-454B shortage, how it impacts HVAC system pricing and availability in Florida, and why Millian Aire remains a trusted choice for homeowners during this critical time.
Understanding R-454B: The New Standard in Refrigerants
If you have an air conditioner or heat pump in your home, it relies on refrigerant to keep your space cool. Refrigerant is the chemical inside your air conditioning system that absorbs heat from the air and releases it outside, allowing your home to stay comfortable year-round.
For years, R-410A has been the industry standard for residential and commercial systems. However, R-410A carries a high Global Warming Potential (GWP), meaning it can contribute to climate change if it leaks into the atmosphere. Because of this, environmental regulations are pushing the HVAC industry to transition to refrigerants with lower environmental impact.
That’s where R-454B comes in.
R-454B is a next-generation refrigerant designed to replace R-410A. It works similarly to R-410A in terms of cooling performance and energy efficiency, but it has a 78% lower GWP. This makes it a more environmentally responsible option that meets new federal and international climate standards, including the EPA’s phase down of high-GWP refrigerants starting in 2025.
R-454B is used in new HVAC systems built to handle this refrigerant’s specific chemical properties. It is not compatible with older R-410A systems without significant modifications. That’s why the industry is shifting production to equipment designed specifically for R-454B.
While this change is a positive step for the environment, it has caused short-term challenges, including product shortages, rising costs, and supply chain constraints. These issues are making it harder for homeowners and HVAC contractors to access the refrigerant and the systems that use it.
The Root of the Shortage: Supply Chain Disruptions
While the industry’s transition to R-454B is progressing as planned, an unexpected supply chain snag has created serious challenges for HVAC professionals and homeowners alike.
The surprising twist? It’s not the refrigerant itself that’s in short supply, it’s the cylinders needed to package and distribute it.
R-454B, a next-generation refrigerant with lower environmental impact, is being produced by several major chemical manufacturers. There’s no shortage of the chemical at its source.
However, to safely store, transport, and dispense refrigerant, manufacturers must package it in DOT-certified, pressurized cylinders that meet strict safety and regulatory standards.
Here’s where the problem begins.
The global supply of certified refrigerant cylinders is extremely limited. Only a handful of manufacturers worldwide produce these specialized containers, and they have been hit by the same challenges affecting industries everywhere, material shortages, shipping delays, regulatory certification backlogs, and increased global demand.
On top of that, the industry-wide switch from R-410A to R-454B created a sudden spike in demand for new, uncontaminated cylinders, since used tanks can’t be repurposed without risking cross-contamination or failing to meet labeling requirements.
This transition overwhelmed the already strained supply chain, creating a critical bottleneck.
As a result, suppliers are limiting contractor purchases to as little as 20 pounds of refrigerant per week, and in some cases, tying access to R-454B to new equipment purchases, forcing contractors to spend even more just to secure the refrigerant they need.
This bottleneck has caused refrigerant prices to skyrocket, jumping from around $10 per pound to $70–$80 or more in just a matter of weeks.
These rising costs are already affecting both contractors and homeowners, especially as the Florida summer season ramps up demand for HVAC service.
Consequences for Florida Homeowners
If you’re a Florida homeowner needing AC service or considering a system replacement in 2025, it’s important to understand how this refrigerant shortage could impact you directly.
Service Delays Are a Real Possibility
With suppliers restricting how much R-454B contractors can purchase, some HVAC companies may run out of refrigerant entirely, leaving homeowners waiting days or even weeks for repairs or installations.
This risk grows as demand spikes during the hottest months of summer, when air conditioners are working their hardest and more systems are likely to fail. Without refrigerant on hand, even simple repairs could be delayed.
Higher Costs Are Inevitable
The jump in R-454B pricing from $10 per pound to $70 or more, means homeowners may see increased costs for services involving refrigerant. This applies to everything from recharging low systems to full system replacements.
On top of the refrigerant price itself, the switch to R-454B requires specialized equipment and additional technician training, adding to the overall service cost.
Millian Aire is committed to transparent pricing, but like all contractors, we are affected by market conditions. Acting sooner rather than later may help avoid future price increases as the industry continues to navigate this supply crisis.
Safety Requires Certified Professionals
R-454B is classified as “mildly flammable” (A2L), meaning it must be handled carefully by certified, trained professionals who understand the safety requirements. This isn’t just about technical know-how; it’s a legal and safety issue.
Proper installation, handling, and charging procedures are critical to ensure your system runs safely and efficiently.
At Millian Aire AC & Heating, our technicians are fully trained and certified to work with R-454B systems. We follow strict safety protocols and stay current with all EPA and industry guidelines, giving you peace of mind that your home and family are protected.
What Homeowners Should Do Next and Why Millian Aire Is Ready to Help
While many contractors are struggling to secure enough R-454B to meet customer demand, Millian Aire has taken proactive steps to stay ahead of the crisis.
By purchasing bulk 100 lb canisters and transferring refrigerant in-house, we’ve secured enough supply to serve our residential and commercial clients through at least August.
With more than 3,000 pounds of refrigerant on hand, we are fully prepared to handle repairs, recharges, and full system replacements, while other companies may be forced to turn customers away.
That said, the rising cost of R-454B is something every homeowner should consider. We believe in transparent, upfront pricing that reflects the current market.
If you are unsure whether your current system uses R-410A, or you have been putting off a replacement or major repair, now is the time to act. Delaying could mean longer wait times, higher costs, or even limited availability as the summer heat pushes demand even higher.
Our certified HVAC professionals are here to help you make the right call for your home or business.
We’ll assess your current system, explain your options, and provide expert recommendations based on your budget and timeline.
At Millian Aire, we’re committed to keeping your home cool, comfortable, and efficient even in the middle of an industry-wide shortage.
Call us today or schedule your consultation or service appointment online, and let us help you navigate this transition with confidence.
