Heating, Air-conditioning, & Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI), representing over 500 HVACR wholesale distributor members, applauded Rheem for its recent announcement to temporarily increase the factory pre-charge of R-454B refrigerant in its air conditioners and heat pumps. This proactive step will help alleviate the impact of the current R-454B cylinder shortage and reduce the need for additional refrigerant during installation.

“HARDI is encouraged to see manufacturers like Rheem taking decisive action to support contractors and distributors during this period of supply chain disruption,” said HARDI CEO Talbot Gee. “By increasing the factory refrigerant charge without raising unit prices, Rheem is helping ensure continuity of service and minimizing installation delays in the field.”

Rheem’s decision enables base efficiency units to support installations requiring a 30-foot line set and a 3/8-inch liquid line, effectively doubling the reach from the previous 15-foot standard. HARDI thanks Rheem for its continued commitment to reliability, performance and customer support.

HARDI remains focused on helping its distributor members and their contractor customers navigate the refrigerant transition while maintaining high standards for safety, efficiency, and compliance. HARDI continues to encourage 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 assist contractors in better planning for refrigerant requirements.