As of 2025, a new refrigerant—R-454B—is replacing R-410A in residential heating and cooling systems (read here) . While this transition is meant to reduce environmental impact, the reality is far from smooth. At JBH Heating and Air, we’ve seen firsthand how the rollout has created problems across the board, from product shortages to installation delays.
If you're a Dayton-area homeowner considering an HVAC upgrade this year, our advice is simple: wait, if you can.
Here’s what’s going wrong:
Severe Supply Shortages
Manufacturers can’t keep up with demand. Both refrigerant and compatible equipment are backordered across the industry.
Price Hikes
R-454B cylinders are selling for 2-4 times —sometimes more than originally priced. These costs are being passed along to homeowners through higher system prices.
Installation Delays
We’re seeing shipping delays of 8–10 weeks or more for R-454B units. That means longer wait times for homeowners.
Why Waiting Makes Sense
If your current HVAC system is still running—even if it’s not perfect—holding off on an upgrade could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Here’s why:
Prices and availability will stabilize later in 2025 and into 2026.
Any production flaws should be worked out.
If you ask me, none of this really makes sense. This switch has been on the books for years. Manufactures decided several years ago whether they were switching to R32 or R454B. The refrigerant producers knew then, approximately how much refrigerant was needed to be manufactured, this includes the number of cylinders needed. Manufactures know exactly how many a/c and heat pump systems are sold and installed every year. I find it hard to believe that with all that data, the refrigerant manufacturers “did not expect initial demand to be so high”. Of course they did. Not to be a conspiracy theorist or anything, but I bet the “shortage” and subsequent rise in prices has helped some manufacturers profit margins over the past few weeks.
At JBH Heating and Air, we’re committed to giving our Dayton-area customers honest, informed recommendations—not pressure tactics. If you're thinking about replacing your HVAC system, give us a call. We’ll help you weigh your options based on current market conditions and what makes the most financial sense for your home.
JBH Heating and Air: Your HVAC Partner in Uncertain Times
