Freon Shortage Alert: What Homeowners Need to Know Before Replacing Their AC
If you’re thinking about replacing your air conditioner this summer, or recently had a new AC installed, be warned: refrigerant shortages are already causing major problems. Some contractors are cutting corners and illegally using the wrong type of freon to charge new systems.
At Tom’s Mechanical, we’ve secured a limited supply of R-454B refrigerant and have started stocking R-32 systems to prepare for the nationwide phaseout of older refrigerants. Call us if you’re planning to replace your system to ensure you don’t run into complications due to the current freon shortage.
Why Is There a Freon Shortage?
Domestic HVAC manufacturers have moved to a new refrigerant called R-454B to meet updated EPA standards. But there's a catch: most R-454B systems needs extra refrigerant added during installation, and there’s currently a widespread shortage of that refrigerant.
That means some companies, especially smaller HVAC contractors that are not properly stocked, are resorting to charging new systems with the wrong type of refrigerant just to complete AC replacement jobs.
Why Using the Wrong Freon Is a Huge Problem
Filling an R-454B unit with R-410A or R-32 may seem like a quick workaround. It may even work temporarily, particularly before the prolonged triple-digit temperatures arrive. Using the wrong freon is illegal and can:
- Reduce your system’s cooling performance and efficiency
- Damage internal components (especially if R-32 is used)
- Void your manufacturer’s warranty
- Create safety risks, especially as summer temperatures climb
Come July and August, those shortcuts will be exposed, and homeowners will be stuck with costly repairs or full system replacements.
Buyer Beware: Don’t Get Burned
At Tom’s Mechanical, we do things the right way. Our team follows all DOE and EPA requirements for refrigerant handling, and we’ll never risk your AC replacement investment or home comfort for the sake of our bottom line.
Let us install your AC right the first time. Protect your home, your comfort and your wallet.
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