Expert answers to your R-454B shortage questions
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Following last week’s ACCA Codes and Coffee webinar on the R-454B refrigerant shortage crisis, we reached out to our expert panelists to provide detailed answers to the most common questions from attendees. The discussion generated a lot of interest and urgent concerns from contractors nationwide, and we wanted to ensure everyone receives thorough responses to these important issues.
We’ll be adding more panelist responses as we receive them, so this resource will continue to grow with additional expert insights and solutions.
ACCA members: Don’t forget you can watch the complete webinar recording anytime here.
For the latest updates on refrigerant shortage resources and industry guidance, check the Contractor Resource Center regularly.
Top 10 questions from Codes and Coffee: The R-454B Shortage Crisis – What Contractors Need to Know
- When will R-454B be widely available in supply houses?
- What caused the shortage — refrigerant supply or cylinder availability?
Worthington Enterprises: There has been constrained availability of both refrigerant gas and cylinders after a surge in demand for R454B far exceeded every projection. The industry was preparing for the demand but not in synchronized rhythm. Worthington Enterprises supplied cylinders to customers who planned ahead and placed orders early. Then we secured an abundance of materials, staffed our manufacturing facilities aggressively and increased production to meet new demand. - Why wasn’t the transition to R-454B better forecasted or planned?
Worthington Enterprises: It wasn’t a failure of effort – it was a breakdown in connection. Forecasting, raw material sourcing, fill capacity and cylinder supply were all managed in silos. Again, everyone was actively preparing but not in rhythm. - Can R-410A or R-32 be used as substitutes in emergencies?
- Why are prices so high? Is price gouging happening?
- What are the recommended safe handling practices for R-454B and downpacking?
- How can wholesalers better manage distribution to prevent hoarding?
- What are the implications for new construction and warranty issues?
- Are there real-time solutions for companies and techs without access to refrigerant?
- Will this shortage impact other refrigerants like R-32, and is switching brands viable?
Posted In: A2Ls, Refrigerants, Supply Chain
