HVAC Industry Groups Sue EPA Over Refrigerant Rule Revisions

The petitioners contend that the EPA’s decision to delay transitions in the commercial refrigeration sector directly contradicts the statutory phasedown of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) mandated by the AIM Act. While supply is legally required to decline, the final rule artificially sustains demand for older, high-GWP refrigerants. Industry leaders warn that this policy shift will trigger a 12- to 24-percent price hike for refrigerants by 2029, disproportionately impacting residential air conditioning and forcing contractors to navigate an increasingly volatile supply chain.

Talbot Gee, CEO of HARDI, characterized the rule as legally flawed and economically reckless, noting that the agency disregarded years of industry-led preparation. Beyond the immediate financial strain, the associations argue that the EPA's rationale rests on a false premise regarding grocery costs, as the original restrictions had not yet taken effect to impact consumer prices. While the groups support the EPA’s decision to provide relief for existing split-system residential equipment, they argue that the current path creates unnecessary pressure for a rushed, potentially unsafe transition to highly flammable A3 refrigerants.