Changing EPA Refrigerant Regulations: Introduction - Segment 1

In this introductory video, we are joined by Alex Ayers, VP of Government Affairs for HARDI, and Talbot Gee, HARDI’s CEO, along with EGIA Contractor University founding faculty member and HVAC contractor Weldon Long. Alex begins by discussing his role as a lobbyist for the HVAC industry as part of HARDI. Talbot then explains the importance of being educated on the current regulatory changes that are occurring with the A2L refrigerant transition. Talbot emphasizes that it is critical that the HVAC contractor be the true source of information for homeowners regarding the transition.

Changing EPA Refrigerant Regulations: The Rule Changes - Segment 2

Talbot Gee, Alex Ayers and Weldon Long begin to discuss the three main factors with the rule changes, including: allocation of refrigerant amounts to be produced and cutoff dates; technology of the equipment, in order to lower Global Warming Potential (GWP), as well as additional safety devices (built-in leak detection, eg); and refrigeration management and required recovery and reclaim procedures.

Run Time: 16:02

Changing EPA Refrigerant Regulations: Transition & Implementation - Segment 3

Talbot Gee, Alex Ayers and Weldon Long discuss the impact that A2L transition will have on HVAC contractors. Some of the issues discussed in this video include liability, capital investment on the part of the contractor, code enforcement and documentation procedures. The panel also touches on factors such as manufacturer certification, warranty considerations and state building code approvals.

Run Time: 14:15

Changing EPA Refrigerant Regulations: Inventory, Availability, Pricing & Timing - Segment 4

In this video, the panel discusses the challenges regarding production and inventory that manufacturers are facing and how that will impact contractors. Talbot Gee stresses the importance of contractors having a business plan and communicating that plan to distributors to ensure they don’t get stuck with unwanted equipment. They also explore how A2L refrigerants will be viewed from a flammability and storage perspective, before having a conversation around how code adoption varies from state to state and the impact that will have on timing of product availability.

Run Time: 17:17

Changing EPA Refrigerant Regulations: Strategy Moving Forward - Segment 5

Weldon Long tees up the question of whether or not contractors should stock up on R410a equipment and refrigerant for service. Talbot Gee and Alex Ayers explain the pros and cons of front-loading R410a equipment and the importance of educating the homeowner on the timing of the mandated reductions. They also talk about the importance of a solid refrigerant recovery program in order to serve their existing R410a customers going forward and explain why mismatched systems will no longer be allowed to be installed.

Run Time: 17:24