
Living in Peoria, IL means your HVAC system plays a major role in your everyday comfort. Whether it’s warm and humid or crisp and cool, you rely on your air conditioning system to keep your home livable, your air quality healthy, and your family comfortable. So, when national supply issues start affecting the very refrigerant your AC system depends on—like the current R-454B refrigerant shortage—it’s only natural to have questions and concerns.
At Lambie Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc., we’re here to ease those worries. We understand the situation, we’re prepared, and most importantly—we’re committed to helping you stay cool, informed, and confident in your HVAC choices.
What Is R-454B and Why Is It Important?
Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your air conditioning system. It’s the substance that absorbs heat from your indoor air and releases it outside. R-454B is one of the new generation refrigerants, developed to be more environmentally friendly than its predecessors.
It was introduced as a replacement for R-410A due to environmental regulations designed to reduce the global warming potential (GWP) of refrigerants. While R-410A has a GWP of around 2,088, R-454B cuts that down to roughly 466—a nearly 80% reduction. That’s a big deal in the HVAC world.
The industry is shifting, and equipment manufacturers have started transitioning to R-454B to meet federal mandates. However, with new refrigerants come growing pains—and right now, that pain comes in the form of a supply shortage.
Understanding the R-454B Refrigerant Shortage
Due to a variety of supply chain constraints, including limited production capacity, regulatory rollouts, and rising global demand, there’s currently a nationwide shortage of R-454B refrigerant. This means homeowners in Peoria and across the country may experience delays in AC system replacements, repairs, or retrofits—especially with systems designed exclusively for this new refrigerant.
According to data from the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI), manufacturers and suppliers are still in the early stages of ramping up the infrastructure needed to fully support this refrigerant. Compounded by regulatory transitions, technician training requirements, and part compatibility issues, it’s created a bottleneck that impacts both homeowners and contractors.
How This Shortage Impacts Peoria Homeowners
If you’re in the market for a new AC system—or if your current one is nearing the end of its life—you may be wondering what this means for your home. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Limited Availability of New Units
Some newer AC units are designed specifically to run on R-454B, and due to the shortage, their availability is currently limited. This could affect homeowners looking to upgrade older systems.
2. Delays in Installation and Repairs
Even if a unit is available, certain parts and refrigerant-related components may be harder to come by. This can extend lead times for both new installations and certain types of repairs.
3. Long-Term System Planning is Crucial
The shortage highlights the importance of proactive HVAC system maintenance and planning. Homeowners should avoid waiting until their current system fails to start thinking about replacement.
Our Response: Proactive, Prepared, and Peoria-Focused
At Lambie Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc., we’ve seen this change coming and prepared accordingly. Our goal is to ensure that every Peoria homeowner continues to have access to dependable comfort—even in the face of industry-wide challenges.
Here’s how we’re helping you navigate the R-454B shortage:
Stockpiling the Right Equipment
We’ve proactively stocked units and parts that still operate on R-410A and other currently available refrigerants to ensure that our customers don’t face unnecessary downtime while waiting on R-454B supplies.
Technicians Trained on All Systems
Our licensed technicians have received the latest training on both traditional refrigerant systems and new low-GWP options like R-454B. You can trust us to make the right recommendation based on what’s safe, compliant, and immediately available.
Transparent Advice, No Pressure
We’ll never push you into replacing your system if you don’t need to. Our technicians focus on educating you on your options and helping you make an informed decision that fits your home, budget, and comfort goals.
Should You Replace Your AC System Right Now?
Not necessarily. If your system is running efficiently and reliably, there’s no need to rush a replacement just because of the refrigerant shift. But if your system is:
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Over 10–15 years old
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Frequently breaking down
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Using outdated or banned refrigerants like R-22
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Costing you more on energy bills
…it’s worth scheduling a consultation. Even if you don’t replace right away, understanding your system’s status will help you make smarter decisions when the time comes.
Smart Tips for Staying Ahead of the Shortage
While we manage the R-454B shortage for you on the service side, there are things Peoria homeowners can do now to stay ahead of the curve:
1. Get Regular AC Maintenance
Routine HVAC tune-ups keep your current system running at peak efficiency and can prevent breakdowns that might otherwise force you into an emergency replacement. A well-maintained system uses refrigerant more efficiently and is less likely to leak or require major repairs.
2. Ask About Your System’s Refrigerant
If you’re unsure which refrigerant your current system uses, ask us during your next service. Knowing whether your system runs on R-22, R-410A, or is compatible with R-454B helps you plan for the future.
3. Schedule Early If You Need a Replacement
If your system is on its last legs, don’t wait until the hottest day of the year to make a move. Scheduling a replacement earlier gives you more options and avoids long wait times.
What Makes R-454B Better?
The shift to R-454B isn’t just about meeting government standards—it’s about environmental responsibility and long-term sustainability. Here’s why this refrigerant matters:
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Lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) – As mentioned, R-454B has a GWP of 466, compared to 2,088 for R-410A. That’s a significant environmental benefit.
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Energy Efficiency Potential – Systems designed for R-454B tend to be more efficient, reducing energy use and monthly utility bills.
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Compliance with Future Regulations – Investing in R-454B-compatible systems today helps future-proof your home as environmental standards continue to evolve.
In short, while the transition is temporarily inconvenient, the long-term benefits are well worth it—for both homeowners and the planet.
Why Choose Lambie Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.?
We’ve been serving Peoria and the surrounding Illinois communities for decades with honest, dependable, and expert HVAC service. Our team understands that your comfort and peace of mind matter, especially when dealing with a nationwide shortage like this one.
When you work with Lambie Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc., you’re choosing a local HVAC partner that is:
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Prepared for changing refrigerant regulations
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Dedicated to transparent communication
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Skilled in servicing all types of systems
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Committed to helping you make informed decisions
Whether you need a repair, maintenance, or advice on upgrading your current system, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
For AC Services in Peoria, IL, Contact Lambie Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. Today
You don’t have to navigate the R-454B shortage alone. At Lambie Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc., our goal is simple: keep your home comfortable year-round, no matter what changes the HVAC industry throws our way.
Whether you’re looking for honest advice, need a fast repair, or are thinking about a new AC system, we’re here to guide you with integrity and expertise. Contact us today to schedule a service, ask about your refrigerant type, or learn more about how we’re managing the current shortage for our customers.
Call now or book online—your comfort is our priority.