Freon (Refrigerant) Shortage in 2025 – Why R-454B is So Expensive Right Now
First things first, technically Freon Refrigerant Cost & Availability isn’t the best title for this article!
I called it “Freon” in the title because that’s what everyone says—and I totally get it. Technically, Freon™ is a brand name, not just a generic term for refrigerant. Think of it like Kleenex or Band‑Aid—people just say “Freon” even when they mean any refrigerant. But here’s the truth: calling every refrigerant “Freon” is like calling all soda “Coke.” It sounds familiar, but it’s not technically accurate.
That said, let’s get to the important stuff!
What’s Driving the Sky-High Cost of Refrigerant in Phoenix?
If you’ve had to top off your air conditioner in Phoenix this summer, you may have experienced a little sticker shock—okay, maybe a lot of sticker shock. Contractors and homeowners alike are asking, “Why is R-454B so expensive right now?”
It’s a fair question, and as someone who’s been in the HVAC industry for over 35 years (I was installing systems before SEER ratings existed!), I can tell you this: we’ve seen refrigerant price hikes before—but 2025 is a whole different beast.
Let’s break down what’s going on.
Why R‑454B is in Short Supply
As of January 1st, 2025, U.S. manufacturers are no longer allowed to produce air conditioners using R‑410A. Most major brands—around 90%—made the switch to a newer refrigerant: R‑454B.
But there’s a problem…
- Production delays and limited global supply of R‑454B have created major bottlenecks.
- New safety and environmental regulations now require specialized refillable cylinders, and those are also in short supply.
- Only a handful of chemical companies manufacture R‑454B, and they’re playing catch-up with global demand.
Result? A perfect storm.
What used to cost a few hundred dollars is now skyrocketing into thousands for homeowners unlucky enough to need a complete recharge.
Magic Touch Mechanical Customers Fear Not!
At Magic Touch Mechanical, we saw the writing on the wall long before these refrigerant changes hit. That’s why we invested early to make sure our technicians are fully stocked with all major refrigerants, including R‑454B, R‑32, and R‑410A.
While some companies may be scrambling to find canisters mid-summer, we planned ahead—so you won’t be stuck sweating it out while waiting on a part or a refill. Whether you need a top-off, full recharge, or a new system install, we’ve got the right refrigerant on the truck and ready to go.
What’s the Big Deal with These New Refrigerants?
The EPA has been phasing down high-GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerants like R‑410A, just like it did with R‑22 years ago.
But unlike last time—where everyone transitioned to the same refrigerant—this time, manufacturers were allowed to choose between:
- R‑454B (used by Lennox, Carrier, Trane, Rheem, etc.)
- R‑32 (used by Daikin, Goodman, Amana)
Both options are supposedly better for the environment, but there are real differences you should know about as a homeowner.
R‑454B vs. R‑32: Which One Is Better?
Honestly? It depends.
We install systems that use both types of refrigerant here at Magic Touch Mechanical, and here’s what I tell my customers:
Refrigerant Comparison – At a Glance
| Feature | R‑454B | R‑32 |
|---|---|---|
| Used by… | 90% of major manufacturers | Daikin/Goodman/Amana/Gree/Fujitsu/LG/… |
| Efficiency | Very good | Slightly more efficient |
| Top-offs allowed? | ❌ No – Full system recharge only | ✅ Yes – Partial recharges allowed |
| Availability in 2025 | ❌ Low – Shortage ongoing | ✅ Easier to find |
| Cost (Summer 2025) | 🔥 Extremely high | ⚠️ Still high, but lower than 454B |
Pro Tip: A 20 SEER system is still a 20 SEER system—regardless of what refrigerant it uses. Focus on system ratings, not just the label on the canister.
Is It Still Okay to Buy a System That Uses R‑410A?
Yes—and in fact, I just did.
R‑410A equipment can still be sold and installed through the end of 2025, and there’s no EPA ban on using the refrigerant itself until well into the 2030s. At the time of writing, R‑410A is still cheaper and easier to find than either of the new refrigerants.
If you’re not planning on living in your current home for the next 15 years—or you just want to avoid overpaying for refrigerant—you might want to consider one of the many high-efficiency 410A systems still available.
The Bottom Line for Phoenix Homeowners
If your AC needs refrigerant this summer, and it uses R‑454B, brace yourself for:
- Higher costs
- Potential delays
- Limited availability of refill canisters
If you’re shopping for a new air conditioner, the refrigerant it uses is less important than:
- How well it’s installed
- Whether the company will stand behind their work
- System availability, parts support, and actual installed efficiency
After 28+ years in business and thousands of installs in Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Queen Creek, and across the Valley… trust me: the best system installed poorly is worse than a budget system installed right.
Let Magic Touch Mechanical Help You Choose the Right AC System
We sell and install air conditioners that use R‑410A, R‑32, and R‑454B—so we’re not married to one refrigerant or brand. That means we’ll give you an unbiased comparison based on your home, budget, and long-term goals.
Need help deciding? Have questions about refrigerant costs?
📍 Call Magic Touch Mechanical in Mesa, AZ
📍 Or book a free quote online
