If it feels like keeping your home cool is getting pricier every year, you’re not wrong. Between supply chain delays, refrigerant phaseouts, and skyrocketing demand in summer, HVAC repairs and replacements are costing homeowners more than ever. And if history is any guide, this summer in Spokane and Northern Idaho will be no different—except for those who plan ahead.
Let’s break down why costs keep rising—and how you can get ahead of the summer rush before it’s too late.
Why HVAC Prices Keep Rising
1. Supply Chain Pressures Aren’t Letting Up
The cost of raw materials like steel, aluminum, and copper—all critical to HVAC systems—has risen by over 22% since 2020 due to global supply chain challenges. This means manufacturers are paying more to produce equipment, and unfortunately, those costs get passed down to homeowners.
Shipping delays also play a role. If a replacement part isn’t in stock, it can take weeks to arrive, leaving families sweating through unexpected breakdowns.
2. The Refrigerant Phaseout Is Driving Up Costs
Does your AC system run on R-22? If so, repairs could be twice as expensive due to dwindling refrigerant supplies.
The EPA has phased out R-22 refrigerant (also called Freon), and while newer systems use R-410A (Puron) or even the latest R-32, many older units still rely on R-22. Since manufacturers stopped producing it, prices have skyrocketed, making routine repairs prohibitively expensive.
For homeowners with an aging system, waiting to replace it could mean paying hundreds—or even thousands—more in repairs down the line.
3. Summer Crunch Means High Demand & Long Wait Times
Every summer, HVAC companies across Spokane and Northern Idaho experience a surge in emergency calls. And let’s be honest—our summers aren’t mild anymore. Last July, Spokane saw a record-breaking 109°F, while areas in Northern Idaho weren’t far behind. When temperatures soar, so does demand for AC repairs, leading to:
- Longer wait times (weeks, not days, in extreme cases)
- Higher emergency HVAC service costs
- Limited availability of new systems and replacement parts
Waiting until June or July to fix or replace your HVAC system could mean paying hundreds more and sweating through a frustrating wait.
How to Beat Rising HVAC Costs
Now that we know why prices are climbing, let’s talk about solutions.
1. Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient System & Save Big
Newer HVAC systems aren’t just more reliable—they’re more efficient. That means lower monthly energy bills and potential tax incentives to help with upfront costs.
Switching to a high-SEER heat pump or air conditioning unit can:
- Cut energy bills by 30–50%
- Qualify for federal tax credits (up to $2,000 for heat pumps)
- Provide better cooling during heatwaves
And right now, Mainstream is offering new HVAC systems from just $99/month—so upgrading doesn’t have to break the bank.
2. Avoid Summer Price Surges—Lock in Lower Prices Now
HVAC prices spike in summer, but spring is the perfect time to install a new system or schedule maintenance while demand is still manageable.
By booking your upgrade now, you’ll:
- Secure today’s pricing before summer increases
- Guarantee installation before heatwaves hit
- Have time to maximize tax credits & rebates
3. Get Regular Maintenance to Avoid Surprise Breakdowns
If replacing your HVAC system isn’t in the budget this year, a professional tune-up is the next best thing. Preventive maintenance can:
- Catch small issues before they become major repairs
- Improve efficiency and extend your system’s lifespan
- Prevent last-minute emergencies when temperatures spike
A simple HVAC tune-up can save you from a $1,200 emergency repair bill later in the season.
Lock In Your Price & Stay Cool This Summer
At Mainstream, we believe homeowners shouldn’t have to worry about surprise HVAC costs or getting stuck without AC when they need it most.
Don’t wait until summer heatwaves drive up prices and extend wait times. Schedule your HVAC upgrade today to lock in your price, maximize rebates, and guarantee your home stays cool when it matters most.
