Federal restrictions on methylene chloride affect more than just paint strippers. The regulation also covers adhesives, sealants, removers, cleaners, and degreasers, including products used in commercial HVAC and ductwork applications.

For manufacturers, distributors, and contractors, the message is clear: a methylene chloride-containing product cannot continue to be sold or used simply because it is labeled for professional or industrial use. Most industrial and commercial uses are prohibited under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s 2024 rule.

What Is Methylene Chloride?

Methylene chloride, also known as dichloromethane or DCM, is a volatile solvent. It was commonly used in sealants and adhesives because it evaporates quickly, dissolves many materials, and supports rapid bonding. It has also been used in coating removers, aerosol cleaners, metal degreasers, and specialty formulations.

The EPA determined that methylene chloride presents health risks from inhalation and skin exposure. These hazards are especially relevant to HVAC applications, where products may be installed in mechanical rooms, shafts, plenums, and other poorly ventilated areas. In enclosed spaces, rapid evaporation can create dangerous concentrations of chemical vapors.

Understanding the EPA Rule

The EPA’s final rule took effect July 8, 2024, under the Toxic Substances Control Act. It prohibits all consumer uses and most industrial and commercial uses of methylene chloride. The regulation generally applies to products containing 0.1% or more methylene chloride by weight.

The rule established a phased compliance schedule. Retail sales and manufacturing for prohibited use ended in 2025, followed by processing and distribution restrictions. As of April 28, 2026, most industrial and commercial uses are prohibited, even when a product was purchased before the deadline or remains in existing inventory.

Implications for the HVAC Industry

The EPA’s permitted uses do not include ordinary commercial HVAC duct sealing, insulation attachment, or equipment installation. A narrow extension through May 8, 2029, applies to adhesives and sealants used in aircraft, spacecraft, and turbine applications for structural and safety-critical purposes. It does not cover conventional ductwork, duct liner installation, insulation attachment, vapor-barrier repair, or general building air sealing.

For the HVAC industry, affected products may include duct sealants, contact and spray adhesives, gasket adhesives, insulation repair products, and certain cleaners or removers.

Switching from Quick-Stick HS to Quick-Stick CA

In February 2025, we proactively discontinued our Quick-Stick HS adhesive formulation and replaced it with our new, methylene chloride-free Quick-Stick CA.

Quick-Stick CA’s new, low-VOC formula complies with California’s SCAQMD 1168 regulations. It provides the same quick, high-tack, and permanent bond for all types of HVAC insulation, ensuring you can maintain the high quality you expect while using a safer, more environmentally friendly product without compromising on performance.

The new Quick-Stick CA formula is highly effective and has been well received; however, the product is flammable while wet. This flammability concern applies immediately after spraying while the adhesive remains in its wet state.

With previous products, users commonly applied too much adhesive, which resulted in delayed tack and curing. The new Quick-Stick CA formula requires only one simple, even pass, covering approximately 90% of the metal surface in accordance with the SMACNA standard. The specific amount of adhesive is not regulated and should be limited to the amount necessary to hold the insulation securely in place until it is pinned. After spraying, wait 30-60 seconds before applying the insulation. This allows the propellant to flash off. Quick-Stick CA is non-flammable once the product is dry.

Ready to Buy?

Ductmate products are available at over 350 locations across the US as part of a selective distribution network.  Use the Ductmate distributor locator map to find a distributor near you.

Outside the US? Check out our international distributor list.  For detailed information on product availability, lead times, or other international sales requests, please email ductmate@ductmate.com.