Beat Rising HVAC Repair Costs: How to Save Now and Avoid Summer Shortages

Updated: June 9, 2025

The Heat Is Coming—Are You Ready?

Every year, it seems like HVAC repairs and replacements cost more. If you’ve noticed rising prices, you’re not imagining things. New federal refrigerant rules, ongoing supply chain challenges, and now international trade impacts are driving costs even higher. HVAC systems are becoming harder to find and more expensive to repair—just as Texas starts heating up earlier and staying hotter longer.

And for homeowners and short-term rental property owners in Fredericksburg, Kerrville, and the Texas Hill Country, there’s even more at stake. A broken AC unit in peak summer doesn’t just mean discomfort—it could mean canceled bookings, negative reviews, and serious lost revenue.

Why HVAC Costs Keep Climbing

If you’ve wondered why HVAC prices keep rising, the answer isn’t just inflation—it’s a perfect storm of policy changes, material shortages, and international trade disruptions. In 2025, homeowners are facing the steepest spike yet, with new regulations and global supply issues combining to drive up costs across the board. Here’s what’s fueling the surge—and why it’s hitting Texas homeowners especially hard.

New Tariffs & Supply Constraints

Starting in 2025, new federal regulations have created a nationwide shortage of the new eco-friendly refrigerants. The switch to lower-GWP refrigerants like R-454B is happening fast—but the tools, parts, and containers needed to support this rollout aren’t keeping up. Prices of HVAC units have already surged 30% to 40% in some areas, and refrigerant costs have reportedly jumped as much as 600%.

Compounding this are ongoing trade tensions, especially with China, where a majority of the refrigerant supply originates. These disruptions are tightening inventory and inflating costs for both repairs and full system replacements.

The Refrigerant Transition: What You Need to Know

If your HVAC system is more than 10 years old, it likely uses R-410A or even older refrigerants like R-22—both of which are being phased out. The new standard is R-32: a more efficient, climate-friendly refrigerant that supports cleaner HVAC operation.

At 72 Degrees Texas, we’ve invested early in the tools and training required to support R-32 systems—and we currently have access to the refrigerant and compatible units. But with demand rising and supplies tightening, that window won’t last long. If your current system needs repairs, you could end up paying a premium—or facing the tough choice of upgrading under pressure.

The Texas Heat Doesn’t Wait

In the Hill Country, triple-digit days can arrive as early as April. That means now—not mid-summer—is your best chance to beat the rush. If your system fails during a heatwave, expect emergency repair costs, long delays, and limited options. And for short-term rental owners, a failed AC unit in July can ruin your season.

How You Can Save Now

The good news? While costs are rising, there’s still time to get ahead of them. Acting early can mean the difference between overpaying during a supply crunch—or locking in the best price, equipment, and energy savings now. Here are the smartest steps homeowners and rental property owners can take today.

Replace Outdated Systems Before Prices Go Higher

If your system is over 10 years old, this isn’t just a nice-to-have upgrade—it’s a must. Older units aren’t compatible with the new refrigerants and are increasingly costly (or impossible) to repair. Replacing them now, before demand peaks, could save you thousands and lock in better efficiency for years to come.

Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient, R-32 System

Our high-efficiency HVAC systems use R-32 and are built to last—saving you money now and protecting your home from future shortages. You could reduce your energy bills by up to 50% and still qualify for up to $2,000 in federal tax credits for energy-efficient upgrades.

Spring HVAC Special: New Systems from $200/Month

Right now, 72 Degrees Texas is offering new high-efficiency systems starting at just $200 per month. That means you can upgrade affordably while supplies last. See full details here.

Lock In Prices Before the Summer Rush

Booking now doesn’t just ensure availability—it protects you from in-season price spikes and refrigerant markups. Our service calls are already increasing, and inventory across the state is tightening. Don’t gamble with your home or rental comfort.

For vacation rental owners, this could be the difference between a 5-star guest review and a lost season. Reliability matters, and so does timing.

Keep Your System Running Smoothly with the Home Comfort Club

One of the best ways to avoid unexpected HVAC expenses is through regular home maintenance. With our Home Comfort Club, members get:

• Priority service—even during heatwaves
• Annual tune-ups to prevent surprise breakdowns
• Discounts on diagnostics and repairs

This helps your system run longer, more efficiently, and with fewer surprises when the heat hits.

Schedule Now to Stay Cool All Summer

Don’t wait until your system breaks down or your guests start sweating. Whether you own a home or manage a short-term rental, now is the time to upgrade or maintain your HVAC system before prices rise even more.

Call 72 Degrees Texas today or schedule online to lock in current pricing, take advantage of spring specials, and ensure your home or rental stays cool all summer long.