FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Allison Greene, Marketing Director

Email: agreene@hardinet.org

Direct: 614.345.4328

Trane Technologies Takes Action to Ease R-454B Shortage for Contractors and Distributors

Heating, Air-conditioning, & Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI), representing over 550 HVACR wholesale distributor members, expresses sincere appreciation to Trane Technologies for its recent decision to increase the pre-charge of residential R-454B systems. This proactive move will help alleviate current shortages of packaged R-454B refrigerant and provide meaningful relief to both contractors and distributors.

The supply strain on R-454B has created a severe bottleneck in the distribution chain, impacting equipment installations and contractor operations as we enter the peak of the cooling season. By increasing the factory charge, Trane is helping to reduce the need for additional field refrigerant and ease pressure on the channel.

“HARDI is talking and working with every part of the industry to find creative, short-term solutions to this unexpected challenge,” said Talbot Gee, HARDI CEO. “We are grateful to Trane for recognizing the urgency of the issue and taking a practical, helpful step that supports both contractors and the distribution community during this critical moment.”

HARDI continues to urge wholesale distributors to educate and train their customers on best practices for installing A2L equipment. Understanding how much refrigerant is needed before arriving at the job site can help contractors plan better for refrigerant requirements. Additionally, Trane’s efforts to reduce this demand through increased pre-charged refrigerant levels represent a much-needed creative solution to the shortage.

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ABOUT HARDI

HARDI (Heating, Air-conditioning and Refrigeration Distributors International) is the single voice of wholesale distribution within the North American and Latin American HVACR markets.

A non-profit association, HARDI serves its members through government affairs and advocacy efforts, market intelligence and benchmarking, training programs, and world class events. HARDI proudly represents more than 490 distributor members and their 5,000 + branch locations, and close to 500 suppliers, manufacturer representatives and service vendors. HARDI Distributor members serve installation and service/replacement contractors in residential and commercial markets, as well as commercial/industrial and institutional maintenance staffs. HARDI Affiliate members market, distribute, and support heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration equipment, parts and supplies.