NYC refrigerant ban could disrupt food retail

USA: HARDI, the US association of HVACR wholesalers, claims that New York’s ban on the sale of virgin R404A and R507A could significantly disrupt food retail operations. 

A new HARDI white paper is critical of NYC’s Department of Environmental Conservation 6 NYCRR Part 494, which prohibits the sale of virgin R404A and R507A refrigerants beginning March 31, 2026.

The report, Measuring the Impact of New York’s Refrigerant Prohibition and the Impact of Shortages on Food Retail Infrastructure, warns that the introduction of Part 494 could significantly disrupt food retail operations across the state, increasing costs for consumers and threatening access to fresh food in vulnerable communities.

HARDI’s analysis finds that enforcement of Part 494 will directly affect an estimated 18,130 refrigeration systems in New York grocery and convenience stores that rely on R404A and R507A. According to HARDI, servicing this installed base requires approximately 1.16 million pounds of refrigerant annually, yet historical nationwide reclaimed supply averages only about 606,000 pounds per year—roughly half of New York’s projected needs. Under a moderate disruption scenario, the report estimates an annual reduction of $106.2 million in statewide economic output.

“Refrigeration is not optional for food retailers. It is fundamental to food safety, public health, and community well-being,” said Alex Ayers, HARDI’s vice president of government affairs. “This report demonstrates that restricting access to service refrigerants before the market is ready risks unintended economic and community consequences across New York.”