With the rationing of R410a and the opportunistic suppliers boosting the prices, the squeeze starting to bite hard. Are we going to see the rapid demise of the VRF/vrv aircon systems?

The slightly flammable R32 refrigerant might be a tolerable alternative for the small splits but large VRF systems running on R32 is too high a risk, and using R410a is getting way too expensive to install and repair systems with uncertain longevity.

Consultants are moving away from VRF systems and looking at chilled water as the only sensible way to proceed. And the big suppliers are already shifting/adding chilled water equipment to their ranges as a response.

But what of the aircon labour force that will be left high and dry. So many are employed with installation of lucrative VRF systems. What will happen to them? They will of course be able to install splits but there is not enough work there to keep the labour force gainfully employed, and the markups are much less than VRF systems. Most will not be willing/able to shift over into large water systems. So how will this play out?

Any other thoughts?