If you’ve tried to schedule air conditioning repairs or replacements recently, you may have heard about rising costs tied to refrigerant — and there’s a good reason why. The HVAC industry is experiencing a nationwide refrigerant shortage, and it’s already starting to impact pricing, service availability, and long-term system planning.
At Noble Air Solutions, we believe in keeping our customers ahead of the curve. Here’s what you need to know about the refrigerant shortage and how it could affect your AC system.
What’s Causing the Shortage?
Several factors are contributing to the current refrigerant crunch:
-
Environmental regulations: The EPA has been phasing out older refrigerants like R-22 (Freon) due to their harmful impact on the ozone layer. Newer, more eco-friendly refrigerants like R-410A and R-32 are now preferred, but not all systems are compatible.
-
Supply chain disruptions: Like many industries, HVAC has been hit by global supply issues, including raw material shortages and shipping delays, slowing down refrigerant production and delivery.
-
Increased demand: With more homeowners investing in AC systems due to rising temperatures and home upgrades, demand is outpacing the available refrigerant supply.
How It Affects You
The shortage means higher costs for both repairs and recharges. If your current AC unit relies on an older refrigerant, servicing it may be far more expensive — and in some cases, not worth it. In addition, some refrigerants are becoming harder to find, which can lead to longer wait times for repairs or maintenance.
Homeowners with older units using R-22 are especially affected, since that refrigerant is now only available via reclaimed or stockpiled sources — driving up the price dramatically.
Should You Upgrade Your System?
If your AC system is over 10 years old, it may be time to consider an upgrade. Modern units are not only more energy-efficient, but they also use more readily available refrigerants that are compliant with current standards.
Replacing your system now could save you money in the long run — both by avoiding expensive refrigerant charges and by lowering your monthly energy bills.
At Noble Air Solutions, we can help you determine if your system is affected by the shortage and walk you through upgrade options that fit your budget and your home’s cooling needs.
What You Can Do Now
Staying proactive is the best approach in this uncertain market. Here’s what we recommend:
-
Schedule a system inspection to check for leaks and refrigerant levels
-
Ask your technician what refrigerant your current unit uses
-
Consider system replacement if your unit is older and uses phased-out refrigerants
-
Look into rebates or financing to offset the cost of a new system
Final Thoughts
The refrigerant shortage isn’t just an industry issue — it’s a homeowner issue. Whether you’re planning routine maintenance or weighing the cost of a new system, being informed helps you make the right choice for your home and your budget.
📞 Have questions? Contact Noble Air Solutions today and let our team help you navigate your options with clarity and confidence.