No Refrigerant = A Hot (Hot) Summer

What’s up,

As you’ve heard, we’re heading into AC season and there’s a shortage of 454-B refrigerant shortage. That’s not a good combination. I break it all down for you below.

Before we start…

• How a home remodeling company grew from $0 to $174 million in three years

• Some plumbing, fridge, and flooring brands are raising prices due to Trump’s tariffs

• The (no-cost) SupplyHouse Trademaster program gives you free shipping, returns, and discounts—plus 5% off your first order with code SH5 (a great way to combat tariff price hikes)

Now, it’s time to talk refrigerant.

What’s Going On With the Refrigerant Shortage?

There’s a refrigerant shortage with no real end in sight.

Here’s what’s happening ⬇️

The Industry Is Running Out of Refrigerant

Last year, the EPA started phasing out R-410A.

Starting this December, it’s illegal to install any system that uses it.

So suppliers offloaded old inventory—and fast.

Now the approved refrigerants are R-454B and R-32:

• R-32 is only used by one brand (Goodman)

• Everyone else is shifting to R-454B

Problem is, supply isn’t keeping up with demand.

Here’s why that’s a big deal:

• AC units ship with refrigerant inside

• Installers also need extra canisters to recharge systems

• No refrigerant = no install—it’s like selling a car without gas

Why the Shortage?

Depends who you ask.

Some say it’s a canister shortage.

Others say it’s tariffs.

Others believe production of the new refrigerants simply isn’t where it needs to be.

But one fact is clear: the switch happened in January.

We’re now in May (almost June).

Old refrigerant is banned. New refrigerant is limited.

Installers are heading into AC season with no equipment to install.

What to Watch

The industry moves on a 10-year refrigerant cycle:

• R-22 to R-410A (10–15 years ago)

• R-410A to R-454B and R-32 (now)

But this transition is different—faster, stricter, and less prepared.

It’s created a supply chain bottleneck right when demand is peaking.

Want to stay ahead of what’s next?

Understand the timing. Stock smart. And know which brands are using what.

The One Software Solution You Need

FieldPulse, a field service operation software solution, is designed to simplify day-to-day operations by combining everything you need into one platform.

You get access to…

• Maintenance plans

• Multiple integrations

• Scheduling and dispatching

• “Good-better-best” proposals

• Advanced tools/features for CRM, estimates, and invoices

Find me on X and share your thoughts on today’s newsletter.

👊 

John

Disclosure: This newsletter includes sponsored content. However, all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

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