As we head into cooling season, we’re reflecting on the curveballs this year has thrown at our industry — and how we’re stepping up to meet the moment. From policy wins to product pressures, it’s been a quarter of action, learning and leadership. Here’s what’s been top of mind at HARDI HQ and what’s coming next.

Advocacy in action

This has already been a banner year for HARDI’s advocacy work. We launched our first-ever State Advocacy Day in California, a major milestone in one of the nation’s most influential policy battlegrounds.

Right now, we’re tracking more than 430 state-level policies, and your voices are making a difference. Thanks to member action, we’ve delayed flawed refrigerant rules in New York, aligned timelines in Washington — and even helped pause a problematic equipment code update, powered by hundreds of member comments to the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.

Want to stay on top of the latest? Our new State Issues Tracker is live and constantly updated, giving you a front-row seat to what’s happening where you do business.

Tariffs and the HVAC industry’s response

Since early February, the Trump administration’s rollout of broad and targeted tariffs has sparked concern across the HVACR channel — especially as distributors and contractors brace for price increases on imported products. 

To gauge the impact, HARDI surveyed nearly 40 contractor businesses nationwide. The result: 89% expect their costs to rise due to tariffs. While some anticipate only product-specific increases, the consensus is that tariffs will bring real financial pressure to their operations.

Contractors offered mixed opinions on how manufacturers and distributors should manage rising costs, though most favored price adjustments built into base pricing rather than shifting surcharges. 

Regardless of the method, one request was universal: transparent, timely communication. Contractors want documentation that clearly explains why prices are changing, enabling them to have more informed conversations with their customers. Several respondents also called for greater lobbying efforts, pricing rollbacks if tariffs are lifted and proactive outreach to maintain trust. 

In short, consistent communication and transparency remain essential for navigating economic uncertainty together.

All eyes on A2L and R-454B

If the A2L refrigerant transition — and especially the R-454B supply squeeze — has felt like a pressure cooker, you’re not imagining things. It’s the No. 1 issue keeping many of our members up at night, and we’ve been rolling up our sleeves to bring clarity to the chaos.

Our team is tackling this from every angle: gathering intel, connecting with agencies and amplifying distributor voices. Our message to contractors? Stay calm, stick to best (and legal) practices and keep the lines of communication open with your distributor partners. We’re also developing simple, ready-to-use communication tools to help members support their customers during this transition.

Need fast, reliable answers? The AskA2L tool is your go-to resource and, as always, our inbox is open.

Events to watch

There’s a lot going on behind the scenes at HARDI, but the best way to see the magic in action is by showing up. This year’s events are built to energize, educate and connect you with the people and ideas moving our industry forward.