Living in Plainfield, IL, you know how important it is to have reliable air conditioning during the warmer months and dependable heat when winter sets in. The Midwest’s fluctuating temperatures mean HVAC systems work hard year-round, and keeping them running efficiently is a top priority for homeowners. But recently, there’s been a buzz in the HVAC world about something that may affect both new installations and ongoing maintenance—the R-454B refrigerant shortage.
If you’ve heard the term “R-454B” tossed around during recent service calls or seen it in HVAC news, you’re not alone. This blog will walk you through the most frequently asked questions about this refrigerant and the current shortage, giving you the knowledge you need to make smart, informed decisions about your home’s comfort system.
What Is R-454B Refrigerant?
R-454B is a newer refrigerant used in residential and commercial HVAC systems. It was developed to replace older refrigerants like R-410A, which are being phased out due to their environmental impact. R-454B offers a lower Global Warming Potential (GWP)—approximately 466—compared to R-410A’s GWP of about 2,088. That’s nearly an 80% reduction.
Manufacturers and environmental agencies support the switch to R-454B as part of the broader effort to meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) AIM Act regulations and global climate goals. So not only is R-454B more eco-friendly, but it’s also the future of refrigerant technology.
Why Is There a Shortage of R-454B?
There are several factors contributing to the shortage of R-454B:
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High Demand for New Systems: As manufacturers rapidly transition from R-410A to R-454B, demand has outpaced production. Many new AC units and heat pumps require R-454B, creating a supply bottleneck.
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Regulatory Deadlines: The EPA mandated the phase-down of high-GWP refrigerants, pushing manufacturers and contractors to adopt low-GWP options quickly. This accelerated timeline has added strain to the supply chain.
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Global Supply Chain Disruptions: Issues such as transportation delays, raw material shortages, and labor constraints continue to affect industries across the board—including HVAC.
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Limited Production Capacity: Because R-454B is relatively new to the market, production facilities are still scaling up. It takes time to build the infrastructure needed to meet rising demand.
How Does This Shortage Impact Homeowners in Plainfield?
If you live in Plainfield and are looking to install or upgrade your HVAC system, the R-454B shortage could affect you in several ways:
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Delays in Installation: HVAC contractors may experience delays in receiving new systems that use R-454B refrigerant. That means homeowners might face longer wait times for installations.
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Potential Price Fluctuations: While we won’t get into specific pricing, limited supply generally means that materials—including refrigerant—can cost more. This could impact the overall cost of service or installation.
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Service Compatibility Questions: Not all existing HVAC systems are compatible with R-454B. If your system uses R-410A or another refrigerant, you can’t simply switch to R-454B without replacing key components.
Is R-454B Safe?
Yes—when installed and maintained properly by a licensed professional, R-454B is safe. However, it is classified as an A2L refrigerant, which means it has low toxicity but is mildly flammable. This is a major reason why installation must be performed by trained technicians who understand how to handle A2L refrigerants safely and in compliance with local codes.
The HVAC industry has developed new equipment and handling practices to safely manage R-454B’s properties, and professional HVAC teams—like those at Leto Plumbing & Heating—are fully trained in these procedures.
Can My Current HVAC System Use R-454B?
In short, no—R-454B is not a drop-in replacement for older refrigerants like R-22 or R-410A. If your current unit uses one of those refrigerants, it cannot be retrofitted to use R-454B without significant and often impractical modifications.
This is why any upgrade or replacement should be approached carefully, with guidance from a professional technician who can help you determine the best path forward based on your system’s age, condition, and future needs.
What Are the Alternatives if R-454B Is Unavailable?
While R-454B is emerging as the preferred low-GWP refrigerant, other options are still on the market, depending on your system’s compatibility:
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R-410A is still available but being phased out, which means availability will continue to decrease in the coming years.
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R-32 is another low-GWP alternative with a GWP of around 675 and is already used in some AC systems globally. However, it is also classified as mildly flammable.
Each alternative comes with its pros and cons, so your HVAC technician can help you assess which refrigerant and equipment combination makes the most sense for your situation.
Will the Shortage Be Permanent?
No—the shortage is expected to be temporary. Industry analysts project that as manufacturing ramps up and supply chains stabilize, the availability of R-454B will improve. That said, because the refrigerant is still new, it may take 12–24 months before supplies become reliably consistent across the country.
In the meantime, HVAC companies like Leto Plumbing & Heating are staying on top of supply developments and adjusting recommendations accordingly to ensure homeowners receive the best options available.
How Can I Prepare My HVAC System for the Transition?
Preparation is key. Here are some practical steps you can take to stay ahead:
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Schedule Preventive Maintenance: Keep your current system running as efficiently as possible to delay the need for a replacement.
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Consult an HVAC Professional: If your unit is nearing the end of its lifespan (typically 10–15 years), now’s the time to start planning for a replacement. A trusted contractor can walk you through refrigerant options and availability.
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Consider Financing Options: If a system replacement is necessary, ask your HVAC provider about financing options to make the investment more manageable.
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Get Informed: Stay updated on refrigerant changes so you’re prepared when your current unit eventually needs service or replacement.
What Should I Do If I Need a New AC System Now?
If your system is beyond repair and you need a new one immediately, don’t panic. While the R-454B shortage may limit some options, it doesn’t mean you’re out of luck.
Leto Plumbing & Heating offers a variety of systems to meet your needs. Our expert technicians can guide you through:
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Equipment selection based on availability
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Understanding refrigerant types and environmental impacts
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Exploring energy-efficient models to lower long-term utility bills
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Planning for future refrigerant transitions
We work closely with manufacturers to source equipment in a timely manner and keep you informed every step of the way.
Why Are Refrigerants Changing in the First Place?
The shift from refrigerants like R-22 and R-410A to newer alternatives like R-454B is driven by environmental policy. Older refrigerants have high GWPs and contribute significantly to climate change. The U.S. and many other countries are phasing out these refrigerants to align with the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, a global agreement focused on reducing the production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).
Switching to R-454B helps:
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Reduce carbon emissions
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Improve energy efficiency in HVAC systems
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Support long-term environmental sustainability
So while the current shortage is inconvenient, it’s part of a much-needed shift toward greener, cleaner technologies.
What Should I Ask My HVAC Technician About R-454B?
Here are some smart questions to bring up during your next service call:
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Is my current system compatible with R-454B?
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What refrigerants are currently available if I need a new system?
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How does R-454B compare to R-410A or R-32 in terms of performance and safety?
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Can you help me plan for a future replacement if my system is older?
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Are your technicians trained to work with A2L refrigerants like R-454B?
Asking the right questions ensures you’re making decisions based on facts—not fear or guesswork.
For AC Services in Plainfield, IL, Contact Leto Plumbing & Heating Today
At Leto Plumbing & Heating, we understand how overwhelming HVAC changes can be—especially with new regulations and refrigerant shortages in the mix. But you don’t have to navigate this alone. Our team stays ahead of industry trends and keeps customers informed so you can feel confident in your decisions.
Whether you’re facing a system breakdown, exploring energy-efficient upgrades, or just have questions about R-454B and your options, we’re here to help.
Call us today to schedule an appointment or consultation. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know and help you find the best HVAC solution for your home and your budget.
