As we move further into 2025, several key issues are affecting building operations, budgets, and planning. In this month’s blog, we’re highlighting three important topics: the ongoing shortage of R-454B refrigerant, new Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS) that could impact your compliance requirements, and the evolving situation with tariffs on large HVAC equipment. Staying informed—and prepared—can help you avoid costly surprises and keep your facilities running smoothly.
R-454B Shortage and Major Price Increases: What It Means for HVAC Projects
There’s currently a shortage of R-454B, the new refrigerant that’s replacing R-410A in many HVAC systems. This low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerant is part of the industry’s move toward more environmentally friendly solutions. Unfortunately, demand is growing faster than supply, and changes in government rules last year added confusion and slowed down production. As a result, it’s getting harder to find R-454B, and prices are going up due to supply and demand.
If you’re planning to replace or upgrade your HVAC system, this shortage could mean longer wait times and increased costs. At Crockett Facilities Services, we’re keeping a close eye on the situation and working with suppliers to get ahead of delays. We recommend starting conversations now if you’re considering an HVAC project, so we can help you plan around these challenges and avoid surprises.
Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS): Are You Ready?
Building Energy Performance Standards, or BEPS, are new rules designed to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions from commercial buildings. These standards are already active in places like D.C. and Maryland, where large buildings must track and report how much energy they use each year. Over time, those buildings will be required to meet certain energy efficiency targets or face penalties.
If your building is affected by these rules, it’s important to start planning now. Crockett Facilities Services can help you collect the needed data, understand your building’s current performance, and create a plan to meet the new energy goals. Making upgrades today can save you money tomorrow and help avoid costly fines down the road.
Tariffs and Equipment Costs: What You Should Know
New tariffs on large equipment imports are starting to impact HVAC project costs. But here’s the key detail: the tariff doesn’t apply when you place your order—it takes effect when the equipment arrives at a U.S. port. That means if you ordered something in January but it didn’t arrive until May, you could still be hit with a higher price.
There’s still a lot of uncertainty around these tariffs. Not all the rules are final, and some suppliers are changing their pricing or sourcing methods to deal with the impact. At Crockett Facilities Services, we’re staying on top of these changes so we can keep our clients informed.