From refrigerant transitions to regulatory pressure, 2025 proved to be a challenging year for HVACR contractors — and our most-read stories reflect it. Topics surrounding the A2L refrigerant transition, the R-454B refrigerant shortage, and evolving government regulations dominated reader interest, highlighting the operational, compliance, and business hurdles contractors faced throughout the year.
The following list ranks the Top 10 most-read articles on Contracting Business in 2025, based on total pageviews from our audience, offering a clear snapshot of the issues that mattered most to contractors navigating a year of uncertainty, change, and adaptation.
10. How to Properly Service Mini-Split Heat Pumps
Discover how Comeau Comfort Systems in Nova Scotia maximizes mini-split efficiency and longevity through unique maintenance techniques and operational insights. (Please sign in or create a free account to read.)
9. ASHRAE Standard 15 Offers Contractors Guidance and Flexibility When Working with A2L Refrigerants
Learn about ASHRAE Standard 15's guidelines for managing flammable A2L refrigerants, including system placement, leak detection, and mitigation measures to protect occupants and equipment.
8. HVACR Leaders to Contractors: Don’t Mix and Mismatch — Topping Off R-454B Units Could Spell Trouble
Limited availability of R-454B refrigerant poses challenges for HVACR contractors, impacting planning, procurement, and customer communication. Industry leaders are responding with strategies and resources.
7. Department of Energy Postpones Efficiency Standards for Home Appliances
These actions postpone the efficiency standards for seven home appliances, including central air conditioners.
6. The Top 10 OSHA Violations of 2024
An in-depth look at the 2024 OSHA workplace safety violations, offering a comprehensive overview of the most cited federal standards.
5. Trump Pauses Tariffs — HVACR Associations React to Industry-Wide Impact
HVACR industry associations react to Trump's imposed tariffs on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China.
4. EPA Reconsiders Refrigerant Transition
EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin unveils 31 historic deregulation actions, aiming to reduce trillions in regulatory costs. The Refrigerant Transition Rule's impact on the HVACR industry is highlighted.
3. HVAC Contractors Adapt to A2L Refrigerant Changes
As low-GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerants become more prevalent due to environmental regulations, HVAC professionals must stay ahead by investing in updated training, tools, and installation techniques.
2. Georgia HVAC Company CEO Charged with Illegally Importing Harmful Greenhouse Gases into the US
A 57-year-old CEO from Georgia is charged with violating the AIM Act by unlawfully importing 500 cylinders of HFCs from Peru. This is the second prosecution in the US under the Act.
1. Cold Truth: The R-454B Shortage
HVAC contractors are facing challenges due to the R-454B refrigerant shortage and the implications of the AIM Act. Understand the impact on equipment sales, supply chain, and customer affordability.
About the Author
Nicole Krawcke
Nicole Krawcke is the Editor-in-Chief of Contracting Business magazine. With over 10 years of B2B media experience across HVAC, plumbing, and mechanical markets, she has expertise in content creation, digital strategies, and project management. Nicole has more than 15 years of writing and editing experience and holds a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Michigan State University.