Author: Mike Sanders
Email: mike@thefurnaceoutlet.com
If You’re Shopping for an AC This Year, Read This First
There’s been a lot of buzz around R-454B refrigerant lately, and not in a good way. If you've tried to buy a new HVAC system recently, chances are you've run into delays, rising costs, or limited inventory.
That’s because R-454B is in short supply—and the systems that use it are feeling the squeeze.
But here’s the thing: there’s already a better, more affordable alternative available. It's called R-32, and more homeowners and HVAC pros are switching to it for good reason.
Why Is R-454B in Short Supply?
R-454B is part of the refrigerant phase-down following the AIM Act, meant to replace older refrigerants like R-410A. But it’s still relatively new in the U.S., and that means:
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Limited manufacturing
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Distribution hiccups
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Higher pricing
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Backorders and longer install times
As New HVAC Guide explains, this shortage is already affecting the 2025 cooling season. Contractors are having trouble sourcing equipment, and homeowners are stuck either waiting or paying a premium.
Meet R-32: The Refrigerant Already in Millions of Homes
You may not know this, but R-32 makes up about 70% of R-454B. It’s a single-component refrigerant used in over 160 million systems globally, with a solid reputation for:
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Better heat transfer
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Lower equipment complexity
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Easier servicing and charging
According to R32Reasons.com, R-32 is efficient, widely available, and already approved for residential use in the U.S.
R-32 vs. R-454B: Cost and Availability
Compared to R-454B, R-32 is easier to find and less expensive. It’s not some new blend—it's a stable, proven refrigerant that’s already in high-volume production.
AC Units For Less points out that R-32-based systems can be hundreds of dollars cheaper—not just for the equipment, but also when it comes to long-term service and recharging.
Since it’s a single-component refrigerant, R-32 is also simpler to recover, top off, and recycle. No blending or special handling needed.
Who Wins in Cooling Performance?
Both R-454B and R-32 outperform R-410A, but R-32 has a clear edge in energy efficiency and heat transfer.
Ingram’s Water & Air found that R-32 moves heat more effectively—great news if you’re dealing with hot summers or a home that’s hard to cool.
Bottom line: You’ll likely get better cooling performance from an R-32 system, especially if you’re upgrading an older unit.
Is R-32 Safe for Home Use?
Let’s talk safety—because the flammability talk always comes up.
Both R-454B and R-32 are A2L refrigerants. That means they’re mildly flammable, but not explosive. Installed properly, both are considered safe for residential use.
Horne HVAC breaks it down like this: If you're comfortable with natural gas in your furnace or propane in your grill, R-32 poses no more risk.
The key is making sure it's installed by a licensed HVAC tech who follows code—and that applies to any refrigerant.
What About the Environment?
R-454B has a slightly lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) than R-32—466 vs. 675. But that’s not the whole story.
R-32 systems tend to use less refrigerant overall, and their higher energy efficiency means fewer emissions over the lifetime of your system.
According to R32Reasons.com, R-32 is easier to recover and reuse, and it already has a solid infrastructure behind it.
That makes it a practical choice for homeowners who care about performance and sustainability.
Why I’m Choosing R-32 for My Next System
As a guy who does his own installs when I can—and wants to avoid service headaches later—here’s why R-32 is a no-brainer:
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It’s available now (no waiting weeks for backorders)
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The equipment is cheaper
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It’s easier to work with
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It cools better and saves money on the power bill
Most importantly, you’re not locking yourself into a refrigerant that might be stuck in short supply for years.
Final Thoughts from One Homeowner to Another
Look, I get it. Navigating refrigerant options can feel like deciphering alphabet soup. But this is one of those times where a little research pays off.
If your HVAC contractor tells you “R-454B is your only option,” don’t be afraid to push back and ask:
“What about R-32?”
Chances are, they’ll admit it’s just as good—or even better. And your wallet will thank you.
Need Help Choosing the Right System?
Check out our full lineup of R-32 air conditioners and heat pumps here.
Got a Question? Want an Honest Opinion?
📧 Email me: mike@thefurnaceoutlet.com
I’m always happy to help a fellow DIYer figure things out.
