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 current system with a service like furnace installation in Alliance, it may be a good idea to order sooner rather than later.
Current shortages are a result of several problems throughout the supply chain. We’ll explain how these issues have affected the HVAC industry as well as what you can do to reduce 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 good thing for homeowners, as this means more efficient heating and cooling. But recent hiccups in the supply chain impacts how quickly these systems can be manufactured and shipped. There are several 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 gradually contributed to the backlog. A few extra days every now and then accumulates over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: Global supply chains are fine-tuned for optimal efficiency and can take time to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials is affected. While companies find alternatives to help catch up, existing backlogs continue to make steady, if slow progress.
- Rise in Costs of Raw Materials: Metals including steel and copper are vital for quality HVAC equipment. Valuable 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 the gears of the HVAC industry. As products take longer to arrive, people may have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Fortunately, you still have options for reducing delays.
4 Ways to Lower the Impact of HVAC Product Shortages
Are you actively searching 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.
- Stay on top of routine maintenance: Services like preventive 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 reduced risk of problems.
- Look for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown might leave you stuck waiting for a replacement. Listen for unusual sounds and monitor your energy bill for evidence the HVAC system is in trouble.
- Order in advance: If you were waiting to install a new furnace or air conditioner, it might be a good idea to go ahead and make the order. Even with current supply chain issues, you’re more likely to receive your new equipment by the time you actually want it.
- Consider alternative equipment: If an existing make or model is struggling with a shortage, considering alternatives can open up other 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 pros at Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces want to help reduce your wait times for a new furnace or air conditioner. If you’re considering new or replacement installation, it’s a good idea to get started soon. Request your free estimate today by giving us a call at 308-321-4703.