The HVAC industry is undergoing a pivotal transition as it shifts toward next-generation, energy saving refrigerants that meet safety and performance standards. R-454B, a low-GWP (Global Warming Potential), high-performance refrigerant, is central to this evolution. However, recent market dynamics — including a surge in demand, supply chain bottlenecks, and cylinder and component shortages — have created short-term constraints in R-454B availability for new residential installs.

Honeywell recognizes the critical role refrigerant availability plays in keeping homes, businesses, and entire communities running. And whether you're a contractor installing new systems, a distributor managing inventory, or a manufacturer planning production, uninterrupted access to R-454B is essential. That’s why we’ve mobilized a comprehensive response to stabilize supply, support our partners, and invest in long-term resilience. Due to Honeywell actions, our monthly shipping volumes have ramped up and we are now shipping 72% more in July as compared to April, with a further increase of 25% planned for August.

Scaling Up Production Capacity

To meet the surge in orders received earlier this year, Honeywell has doubled its blending capacity and increased hiring by 30% to support additional downpacking operations. These enhancements are currently in effect and will continue until supply stabilizes.

Convening the Full Supply Chain

We’re engaging through our trade association partnerships to assess and address current and future supply chain challenges – upstream and downstream. This collaborative approach ensures that every stakeholder along the value chain contributes to the development of robust and resilient solutions. As a short-term measure, Honeywell has activated our global network to ensure sufficient R- 454B supplies are available for the U.S. supply chain. This approach allows us to effectively manage immediate challenges while improving future supply. 

Creative Solutions for Future Resiliency

We’re actively developing innovative solutions that address current supply challenges while also laying the groundwork for stronger, more resilient forecasting and future supply networks. For instance, we are partnering with OEMs to increase pre-charged refrigerant volumes in new units. This approach reduces the need for field charging and enables contractors to manage inventory constraints with greater efficiency.

• Support for Distributors: Scaling Supply and Streamlining Logistics
  • Honeywell is taking aggressive steps to support distributors in maintaining continuity of R-454B supply and meeting customer demand. These actions reinforce Honeywell’s commitment to distributor success through reliable product access and long-term investment in U.S. manufacturing capacity.
    • Production Ramp-Up: We’ve doubled our blending capacity and increased downpacking operations by 30%.
    • Cylinder Supply Optimization: To address container shortages, we have qualified new cylinder manufacturers and will be receiving thousands of new cylinders soon. We also have mitigated the impact of specialty valve constraints that have affected availability in the U.S. market.
    • Global Sourcing Strategy: We are leveraging our international supply chain to supplement domestic R-454B availability, ensuring distributors can meet demand without disruption.


• Support for Contractors: Technical Enablement for R-454B Deployment
  • Honeywell is committed to empowering HVAC contractors with the tools and training necessary to navigate the transition to R-454B safely and efficiently. These efforts are designed to reduce installation complexity, improve service efficiency, and ensure compliance with evolving refrigerant regulations. Our initiatives include:
    • A2L Contractor Roadshows: These technical training events provide in-depth instruction on safe handling, installation, and servicing of R-454B systems. The next session is scheduled for this Fall and will include direct engagement with Honeywell technical experts – you can learn more/access resources here 
    • Field Support and Readiness: Honeywell is actively working with customers and trade associations to streamline communication and ensure contractors are equipped with the latest safety protocols, product updates, and troubleshooting resources.

Investing in American Manufacturing

Looking ahead, Honeywell is expanding its manufacturing footprint in Louisiana—specifically in Baton Rouge and Geismar—to meet growing U.S. and global demand, improve reliability, and increase production capacity.

Stay Informed

Honeywell will continue to provide updates and resources as we navigate the R-454B supply landscape. We’re here to support our customers with transparency, innovation, and a long-term vision for energy-efficient cooling solutions.