Across Texas, homeowners are hearing more about rising HVAC costs and for good reason. Between hotter summers, growing demand for high-efficiency systems, and major changes in refrigerant regulations, the HVAC industry is under real pressure. One of the biggest challenges right now is the supply chain strain tied to new low-GWP refrigerants, especially R-454B.

While these changes are necessary and positive in the long run, they’ve made installations more expensive for many contractors across the state. At Leaky’s, however, we’ve worked hard to keep our pricing steady, so Texas homeowners aren’t hit with sudden or unexpected increases.

Why Refrigerants Like R-454B Are Becoming the New Standard

Federal regulations are phasing out older refrigerants such as R-410A in favor of lower-global-warming-potential alternatives to ensure America’s carbon footprint reduces progressively. R-454B is one of the leading replacements, offering a much smaller environmental footprint while maintaining strong performance in extreme heat, something that residents of Texas suffer through each year.

The transition, though, hasn’t been seamless. Equipment designed for R-454B requires updated components, additional safety considerations, and specialized technician training. All of that has added cost and complexity at the manufacturing and distribution levels.

How Supply Chain Pressure Is Showing Up in Texas

Texas is one of the largest HVAC markets in the country, and demand here is relentless because it’s one of the hottest states in the USA. As more systems shift to low-GWP refrigerants, contractors across the state are dealing with:

  • Limited availability of new-generation equipment
  • Higher refrigerant costs
  • Longer lead times from manufacturers
  • Increased wholesale pricing

For many homeowners, this has translated into higher quotes and fewer options, particularly during peak cooling season when systems fail unexpectedly. If you tried to install a new HVAC system recently, you might have seen a higher cost than what you would have paid say 2-3 years ago.

What This Means for Texas Homeowners

In a state where air conditioning isn’t a luxury but a necessity, HVAC replacements are rarely optional. When prices jump because of supply chain issues, it can feel like homeowners are being squeezed from all sides especially with rising energy bills and other household costs already top of mind.

We hear this concern every day from homeowners in Lubbock and San Antonio where we serve regularly. They simply want reliable comfort without feeling like they’re paying extra because of industry changes beyond their control.

How Leaky’s Is Working to Keep Pricing Stable

At Leaky’s, we’ve taken deliberate steps to soften the impact of these supply chain pressures for our customers. By forecasting demand, securing inventory early, and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers, we’ve been able to manage rising costs internally instead of passing them directly onto homeowners.

Even as refrigerant and equipment costs fluctuate across Texas, our focus has been on consistent, transparent pricing so families can plan with confidence and avoid sticker shock when they need a new system.

This approach reflects what we believe: homeowners shouldn’t be penalized for doing the right thing by upgrading to more efficient, environmentally responsible HVAC systems. This is something that big companies are doing because they have their brand name and trust built over the years, so it is easy for them to cheat the customer and overcharge them.

Why This Commitment Matters to Us

Texas homeowners rely on their HVAC systems more than most. Extended heat waves, high humidity, and heavy system usage mean replacements and upgrades are inevitable. In times like these, stability matters.

By keeping our pricing steady during a major industry transition, we aim to give our customers peace of mind knowing they’re getting modern systems designed for Texas heat, without inflated short-term pricing driven by supply chain disruption.

The move toward low-GWP refrigerants like R-454B is here to stay, and over time, supply chains will stabilize. Until then, Leaky’s remains committed to protecting Texas homeowners from unnecessary cost increases while delivering dependable comfort year-round.

If you’re considering replacing or upgrading your HVAC system and have questions about refrigerants, pricing, or availability, our team is always happy to help, no pressure, just honest guidance.