April may have been Earth Month, but for many HVAC and plumbing pros, it was also leak and “my-AC-isn’t-working” season. While the world rallied around renewable energy and climate action to celebrate the planet, you were probably rallying your team to handle spring cleanings, service calls, and last-minute installs before the summer rush.
That’s exactly why the JB Warranties Monthly Round-Up exists — to help you stay in the loop when you’re too busy to scroll the headlines. In last month’s edition, we spotlighted Eagle Eye Networks’ new IAQ sensors, Carrier’s partnership with Google to optimize energy use, training initiatives from Orijin and Interplay Learning in correctional facilities, and the recipients of the 2025 Trade Academy Scholarship from Housecall Pro.
Before the season shifts again, let’s take a look at what caught the industry’s attention in April.
1. R-454B Shortage Continues Through Spring
Contractors making the switch to R-454B, the low-GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerant replacing R-410A, are hitting a frustrating roadblock: it’s tough to get your hands on. While R-454B is available in new, pre-charged equipment, sourcing the refrigerant in cylinders has become increasingly difficult. The root issue? A nationwide cylinder shortage that’s throwing a wrench into what was supposed to be a smooth refrigerant transition.
That transition has been muddied by continued shortages throughout March and April, with distributors struggling to keep up as demand climbs. Lead times have ballooned to as long as 10 weeks, and many supply houses are stuck in limbo waiting on backlogged orders and vague updates from manufacturers.
As contractors head into the summer season, the lack of readily available R-454B is already being felt across job sites — and is expected to continue into the warmer months. Though refrigerant manufacturers anticipate the supply chain will stabilize soon, most are urging contractors to plan ahead, coordinate with suppliers, and adjust timelines where possible. Until cylinder availability rebounds, the industry will likely remain in a holding pattern.
2. PHCC Educational Foundation Expands Online Courses
Speaking of low-GWP refrigerants, the PHCC Educational Foundation is stepping up to ensure techs are fully prepared. The organization recently expanded its online training catalog, adding two new certification prep courses that give technicians the tools to safely handle and transport low-GWP refrigerants, including the ability to earn required credentials.
One of the new offerings focuses on EPA Section 608 of the Clean Air Act, preparing students for the official certification exam and walking them through how to properly maintain, service, repair, and dispose of appliances containing regulated refrigerants. Another is a Business Leadership Essentials module designed to help techs sharpen their communication and problem-solving skills. Later this year, PHCC will roll out additional plumbing coursework.
“In order for technicians to work with systems containing refrigerants, they need HVACR certifications for safe handling,” said Dan Quinonez, Executive Director of the PHCC Educational Foundation. “At the same time, there is also a need for professionals in the industry to build their business skills… Our priority is to be the premier educational resource for the industry, whether that person is on the jobsite or in the boardroom.”
3. Sloan Spotlights Sustainability Efforts on Earth Day
Leading into Earth Day, Sloan — a global leader in commercial plumbing systems — reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to sustainability with a new wave of initiatives. These efforts build on a legacy that spans more than a century, with continued emphasis on water conservation, material transparency, carbon neutrality, and environmentally responsible practices.
Sloan is now advancing its work in chemical risk mitigation and material transparency by phasing out hazardous substances and maintaining compliance with standards like NSF 372/61 and the Living Building Challenge Red List. It also introduced a patent-pending 3,000-gallon filter that reduces PFAS, lead, microplastics, and more, meeting NSF 42, 53, and 401 standards.
On the water stewardship front, Sloan completed its reverification for The Water Council’s WAVE program, a two-year process that evaluates enterprise-wide water risks and implements strategic best practices. “As a leader in sustainability, it’s important to practice what we preach, and our efforts at our locations across the country highlight our commitment to our sustainability mission,” said Paul Sambanis, Sloan Vice President of Sustainability.
4. Simpro Reveals Challenges (and Opportunities) for the Trades
From water conservation to workflow optimization, sustainability in the trades isn’t just environmental — it’s operational. Simpro’s 2025 Trades Outlook Report offers a telling snapshot of what’s driving success (and what’s holding contractors back) in today’s economy. Based on insights from over 600 global trade and field service companies, the report shows that those investing in efficiency are better equipped to handle today’s economic pressures.
Key takeaways from the report include:
- Nearly 80% of business owners say robust invoicing is essential to maintaining cash flow.
- 69% believe AI is most valuable in optimizing workflows and reducing technician downtime.
- Over 30% say predictive maintenance helps them avoid costly breakdowns and emergency calls.
For HVAC and plumbing contractors looking to sharpen their operations, the message is clear: smart systems create stronger businesses. Whether it’s field service management, financing solutions, or full-service consulting for technologies like ServiceTitan, the JB Dealer Services Marketplace has expert tools to help you capitalize on what’s working in 2025.
5. Qualifying for the ServiceTitan Elite Trades Championship Series (SETCS) Opens
If you’re crushing your day-to-day in field service and ready to flex those skills on a bigger stage, here’s your shot. Qualifying is officially open for the ServiceTitan Elite Trades Championship Series (SETCS) — a national competition where top HVAC and plumbing pros compete for serious bragging rights and over $100,000 in cash and prizes.
Finalists will win an all-expenses-paid trip to West Palm Beach, Florida, where they’ll go head-to-head October 8–10 in a custom-built arena at the convention center. The action will air on CBS Sports Network, showcasing elite contractors and apprentices in two major showdowns: the HVAC National Championship and the Plumbing National Championship.
“A national championship conjures images of athletes and stadiums, not wrenches and pipelines,” said Tom Howard, ServiceTitan Vice President of Customer Experience. “But the ServiceTitan Elite Trades Championship Series is changing that. We’re dedicated to showcasing the true champions: the tradespeople who keep our world running.”
Founded in 2016, SETCS was created to raise awareness of the skilled trades and help address the industry’s labor shortage. The competition is free to enter, and tradespeople of all levels can take an online quiz at elitetrades.global to qualify. Sponsors like Milwaukee, Johnstone Supply, American Standard, and more will provide the same tools competitors use every day.
May is Here: Let JB Warranties Power Your Next Move
From refrigerant shortages to new sustainability strides and trade competitions, April delivered plenty of headlines for HVAC and plumbing pros. Whether you’re planning for summer installs, building your skills, or exploring fresh tools for field service, staying in the know gives you an edge — and we’re glad you made time to catch up with us here.
In unpredictable times, JB Warranties continues to have your back with extended warranty plans built for today’s economy. From residential HVAC to commercial plumbing, our coverage helps protect your bottom line while giving your customers peace of mind. Stay ahead of the curve with the most trusted name in extended warranties for the trades.
Explore the benefits of a JB Warranties-backed warranty program today!
Matt Cosby
Director of Marketing
