Feeling the Heat of Rising HVAC Costs? Here’s How to Stay Ahead

Edited: September 8, 2025

If it feels like HVAC repairs and replacements are getting more expensive every year, you’re right — and it’s not slowing down. Between new refrigerant standards, rising material costs, and supply shortages, homeowners across Austin and San Antonio are paying more to keep their homes cool. And when you’re staring down another Texas summer, waiting to upgrade could leave you hot, uncomfortable, and paying even higher bills.

The good news? You’ve still got options. At Radiant Plumbing & Air Conditioning, we’ll break down what’s driving these price increases, what it means for your home, and why acting now could save you money and stress.

Why HVAC Costs Keep Going Up

In 2025, the EPA fast-tracked the national switch to lower global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants like R-454B and R-32. While better for the environment, these changes caused a ripple effect:

• Refrigerant shortages: Prices for R-410A (used in most older systems) have spiked as much as 600%.
• Material costs: Copper, aluminum, and steel — all essential for HVAC systems — are more expensive than ever.
• Tariffs and supply chain strain: With 80% of refrigerants sourced overseas, shipping delays and tariffs are making parts harder to find and more expensive.

If your system relies on an older refrigerant, repairs are already tougher to schedule and pricier than just last year. For many Austin and San Antonio homeowners, the cost of waiting is adding up fast.

Radiant Is Ready With R-32 — For Now

We invested early in systems using R-32 refrigerant, a more climate-conscious option that’s also more readily available than R-454B. Right now, we have access to systems and refrigerant supplies—but we don’t know how long that window will stay open.

If your system is aging or acting up, this is your chance to replace your AC before shortages get worse and costs rise again. Once the current R-32 inventory dries up, wait times and prices are likely to climb even higher.

The Hidden Costs of Hanging Onto an Old System

We get it, replacing your AC isn’t anyone’s favorite expense. But here’s the reality:

• Repairs are pricier. Even basic fixes like a fan motor or compressor cost 30–40% more today.
• Breakdowns are more disruptive. When your system gives out in 100° heat, you’re competing with everyone else calling for service.
• Energy bills creep up. Older systems lose efficiency, so you’re paying more every month to keep the same comfort.

In neighborhoods across Austin, from Pflugerville to Cedar Park, and in San Antonio’s growing suburbs, summer demand has been at an all-time high. That means  homeowners are seeing longer wait times, tighter schedules, and more pressure on already expensive parts.

Acting Now Pays Off

We’re in one of the rare quiet stretches of the year — summer is winding down, and furnace season hasn’t yet kicked in. That makes this the perfect window to take care of your HVAC system. Once the first chilly nights hit, our team will be flooded with furnace repair calls, and availability will shrink fast.

If your AC struggled this summer or your furnace is older than you’d like to admit, now is the time to plan ahead. Waiting until the first cold snap means longer wait times, higher stress, and fewer options.

Smarter Upgrades Save You Money

Replacing an old system isn’t just about avoiding breakdowns — it’s also an investment in lower monthly costs. High-efficiency systems can cut your energy bills by up to 30%, keeping more money in your pocket while keeping your home cooler.

And thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, you may still qualify for valuable tax credits and rebates. These incentives change each year, but in 2025, they can make a big dent in the upfront cost of a new unit. We break it all down in our guide: 2025 is the Final Year to Claim HVAC Tax Credits.

We know replacing or repairing a system isn’t something you’ve budgeted for every day. That’s why we make the process as painless as possible. With flexible financing and seasonal specials, you can spread out costs and take advantage of savings while they last.

Making HVAC Upgrades Easier Than You Think

We know replacing or repairing a system isn’t something you’ve budgeted for every day. That’s why we make the process as painless as possible. With flexible financing and seasonal special offers, you can spread out costs and take advantage of savings while they last.

Protecting Your Investment With Care Club

Once your system is up to speed, the Radiant Care Club is the best way to keep it that way. Members get priority service, regular tune-ups, and discounts on future repairs — all designed to make sure today’s investment pays off for years to come.

Don’t Wait—Call Radiant.

Austin summers may get the headlines, but winters here can be unpredictable — one week it’s mild, the next you’re scrambling for heat. The last thing you want is to discover your furnace won’t fire up on the first cold night of the season.

By taking care of your HVAC system now, you lock in today’s pricing, skip the busy-season rush, and set yourself up for comfort all year long.

At Radiant Plumbing & Air Conditioning, we’ve been keeping Austin and San Antonio homes comfortable for decades. Schedule online today and let’s get your system ready before the season turns.