Anyone who’s ever had to wait for a delivery to show up understands it can be an aggravating experience. The wait is even more annoying when it’s a vital piece of HVAC equipment such as a new furnace or air conditioner. With backlogs and supply shortages, some people are waiting weeks for their new HVAC system to be installed. If you’re considering upgrading your existing system with a service like furnace installation in Justin, it may be a good idea to order now.
Current shortages are a result of a few problems along the supply chain. We’ll explain how these issues have affected the HVAC industry as well as what you can do to avoid the impact.
Why Is There an HVAC Product Shortage?
Standard HVAC systems like furnaces and air conditioners are complex pieces of technology. Generally this is a great thing for homeowners, as this means more effective heating and cooling. But recent problems in the supply chain impacts how quickly these systems can be assembled and shipped. There are a few reasons why your new air conditioner or furnace is delayed, including:
- COVID-19 Precautions: As workers continue to navigate COVID-19, taking sick days and other safety precautions have somewhat contributed to the backlog. A couple extra days here and there adds up over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: Global supply chains are designed for peak efficiency and may take time to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials change. While companies seek alternatives to help catch up, existing backlogs continue to make steady, if slow progress.
- Higher Costs of Raw Materials: Metals like steel and copper are crucial for efficient HVAC equipment. Important materials also include plastics and even finished electronics like microchips and semiconductors. These two components are particularly scarce.
- Worker Shortage: As industries wind back up, they’re also facing a shortage of workers in comparison to the spike in demand. Professional HVAC technicians also take time to train to ensure they provide dependable, efficient services.
As you can imagine, all these concerns have slowed down the gears of the HVAC industry. As equipment takes longer to arrive, people might have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Luckily, you still have options for reducing delays.
4 Ways to Minimize the Impact of HVAC Product Shortages
Are you actively looking for new HVAC equipment? Or do you just want to avoid being left without heat or air conditioning? Whatever your reasons are, there are ways to minimize how the HVAC product shortage impacts you.
- Don’t ignore routine maintenance: Services such as routine air conditioning maintenance are one of the best investments you can make for your HVAC system. Components stay in better shape, which means more consistent performance and a smaller risk of problems.
- Keep an eye out for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown may leave you stuck waiting on a replacement. Listen for strange sounds and keep an eye on your energy bill for signs the HVAC system is in trouble.
- Order in advance: If you were waiting to order a new furnace or air conditioner, it might be a good idea to go ahead and make the order. Even with existing supply chain issues, you’re more likely to receive your new equipment when you actually need it.
- Consider alternative equipment: If a current make or model is facing a shortage, researching alternatives might open up more options. Thanks to modern technology, there are more options for high-efficiency HVAC systems than before.
Request a Free Quote for New HVAC Systems
The HVAC experts at Pepper AC & Htg Inc want to help reduce your wait times for a new furnace or air conditioner. If you’re thinking about new or replacement installation, it’s a good idea to get a head start. Request your free estimate today by giving us a call at 940-202-1184.