Carrier to boost pre-charge in R-454B units, absorb extra costs

Carrier on Friday announced a series of actions to ensure a “steady and dependable supply of R-454B refrigerant” for contractors and distributors amid ongoing supply challenges. 

The big picture: In April, both Chemours and Honeywell raised prices for their R-454B products, citing stronger-than-anticipated demand and higher raw material costs. 

• Chemours’ CEO earlier this month added that demand has strained several areas of the supply chain, but “noticeably around cylinders.”

What’s happening: “To increase availability and reduce delays, we are securing additional volume to improve lead times,” Carrier said in a statement, adding that it’s partnering with distributors to manage allocations. 

• The company will start “increasing the amount of refrigerant pre-charged in residential ducted splits from our standard 15 ft line set to 30 ft on most units,” it added. “Light commercial splits and ductless units are not impacted.”

Zoom out: The actions follow a similar announcement from Trane, reported earlier this month, which is temporarily increasing pre-charge levels in select R-454B units and applying a $50-per-unit charge to account for the added refrigerant. 

• But, but, but: Carrier took a different route, noting Friday, “To better serve our customers, we will not apply incremental surcharges for the increased refrigerant.”

Of note: The company’s “replacement components” division is also addressing the aftermarket, continuing to take orders for R-454B and using its own refrigerant supply to support the market, according to the statement. 

• The bottom line: “We recognize the supply concerns and are dedicated to supporting our channel partners throughout this refrigerant transition,” said Mary Milmoe, the division’s VP.