Living in Bellaire, TX means you’re no stranger to long stretches of heat and humidity. When it’s hot outside, your air conditioning system isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. But what many homeowners don’t realize is that one of the most essential components of your AC system—refrigerant—may be in short supply just when you need it most.
Whether your home is older with an R-22 system or more modern using R-410A or the newer R-454B refrigerants, you could be affected by changing regulations and nationwide shortages. June is the last window to act before demand spikes, prices rise, and supplies dwindle.
Let’s break down why checking your refrigerant levels now is not only smart—it’s essential.
What Is Refrigerant, and Why Does It Matter?
Refrigerant is the substance that cycles through your AC system, absorbing heat from inside your home and releasing it outside. Without it, your AC simply can’t cool your home. It doesn’t “get used up” like gas in a car, but it can leak, and even a small leak can significantly reduce efficiency and cooling performance.
Low refrigerant levels lead to:
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Longer run times
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Higher utility bills
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Poor air circulation
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Risk of system overheating
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Total system breakdown
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, refrigerant leaks can reduce your system’s efficiency by up to 20%—and over time, that adds up to serious money.
Why the 2025 Refrigerant Shortage Is a Real Concern
The HVAC industry is in the middle of a major refrigerant transition. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has mandated the phase-down of hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants like R-410A due to their high global warming potential (GWP). Starting in 2025, many systems will switch to newer, low-GWP alternatives such as R-454B.
But here’s the issue: as manufacturers prepare for this switch, production of R-410A is being scaled back, and prices are rising as demand outpaces supply.
Reports from industry insiders show:
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R-410A stockpiles are projected to drop by over 30% by the end of summer 2025.
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R-454B, while cleaner, is not yet widely available, and many systems are not compatible with it.
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Contractors and suppliers are already warning of delays, backorders, and increased service times.
What this means for Bellaire homeowners is clear: waiting until July or August to check your refrigerant levels could leave you at the back of the line during the hottest time of the year.
Signs Your AC Might Be Low on Refrigerant
You don’t have to be an HVAC expert to recognize when something’s off with your system. If you notice any of these signs, you could be running low on refrigerant:
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Your home isn’t cooling as effectively as it used to, even with the thermostat set low.
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Warm air blows out of your vents even when the AC is running.
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The system runs constantly without achieving the set temperature.
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Ice forms on the refrigerant lines or evaporator coil.
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You hear hissing sounds, which can indicate a refrigerant leak.
If you’ve noticed any of these issues, don’t wait—your system might be under strain, and that strain only increases the longer the refrigerant remains low.
Why June Is the Smart Time to Act in Bellaire
June sits right on the threshold of peak summer temperatures in Bellaire. Waiting even a few more weeks could mean:
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Longer wait times for appointments as HVAC contractors book up.
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Higher refrigerant costs as demand spikes and supply thins out.
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System failures during heat waves when your AC is working its hardest.
By scheduling a refrigerant level check and system inspection now, you avoid the last-minute scramble—and get ahead of the crowd. It’s proactive, not reactive.
What Happens During a Refrigerant Check?
A refrigerant level check is part of a professional AC tune-up. When a technician from McCann Services comes to your home, here’s what they’ll do:
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Inspect the system for leaks – Using electronic detectors or dye tests, the technician will check for any signs of refrigerant escaping.
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Measure refrigerant pressure – They’ll ensure the system is charged to manufacturer specifications.
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Evaluate system performance – Technicians assess airflow, temperature differentials, and overall cooling performance.
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Repair any minor leaks or damages – If a leak is found, repairs can often be made during the same visit.
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Recharge refrigerant if necessary – Only EPA-certified professionals can legally handle refrigerant. If your system needs a recharge, we’ll top it off safely and correctly.
Regular maintenance—including refrigerant checks—can extend your AC’s lifespan by up to 40%, according to ENERGY STAR®.
What If My System Uses R-22 or R-410A?
If your system still uses R-22, you’re probably already aware that it was phased out in 2020. Supplies are limited to recycled or recovered refrigerant, and it’s increasingly expensive. If your R-22 system is having refrigerant issues, this might be the time to discuss upgrading your equipment.
If your system uses R-410A, you’re in a better position for now—but not immune to the effects of the 2025 transition. You can still get refrigerant this summer, but availability might become tighter later in the season.
Starting in 2025, new AC systems will shift to R-454B, which is not backward-compatible. So if your system is more than 10 years old, you might consider scheduling a consultation with McCann Services to discuss your options ahead of the switch.
Can I Just Top Off the Refrigerant Myself?
Short answer? No. Refrigerant isn’t like windshield washer fluid—it’s a chemical compound regulated by the EPA. Only licensed professionals are permitted to handle, recharge, or dispose of it.
DIY refrigerant recharges:
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Violate federal regulations
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Risk damaging your system
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May result in incorrect levels, which can harm performance and void your warranty
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Can be hazardous to your health if mishandled
Professional AC technicians don’t just “top it off”—they check for leaks, verify correct pressure, and make sure the system is running safely and efficiently.
Preventative Maintenance = Peace of Mind
Refrigerant checks aren’t just about solving problems—they’re about preventing them before they happen. In the Texas heat, a broken AC is more than an inconvenience. It can impact your health, safety, and even your home’s structure (especially if excess humidity leads to mold or moisture damage).
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Texas households use more electricity for air conditioning than any other state—accounting for roughly 18% of their total energy consumption. Keeping your system efficient doesn’t just keep you cool—it saves you money.
Why Choose McCann Services?
At McCann Services, we understand how important your home’s comfort is—especially in the heat of Bellaire. Our technicians are:
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EPA-certified
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Experienced with all major refrigerants, including R-22, R-410A, and R-454B
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Prompt and professional, offering reliable service you can count on
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Equipped with the latest tools and training to handle everything from minor recharges to full system upgrades
We believe in transparent service, clear communication, and helping our customers make smart, informed decisions.
For AC Services in Bellaire, TX, Contact McCann Services Today
Don’t let refrigerant shortages catch you off guard this summer. By scheduling a check in June, you give yourself time, flexibility, and peace of mind. Whether your system needs a minor recharge or it’s time to consider an upgrade before the 2025 transition, McCann Services is here to help.
Call us today to schedule your refrigerant inspection, tune-up, or AC consultation. Let’s keep your home cool, your energy bills low, and your family comfortable—all summer long.
Reach out now before the heat really hits.