Anyone who’s ever had to wait for a delivery to show up understands it can be a frustrating 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, many people are waiting weeks for their new HVAC system to show up. If you’re considering upgrading your current system with a service like furnace installation in Cambridge, it may be a good idea to order now.
These shortages are a result of multiple problems throughout the supply chain. We’ll review 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. Usually this is better for homeowners, as this means more efficient heating and cooling. But recent disruptions in the supply chain impacts how quickly these products can be manufactured and shipped. There are several reasons why your new air conditioner or furnace is delayed, such as:
- COVID-19 Precautions: As workers continue to navigate COVID-19, taking sick days and additional safety precautions have gradually contributed to the backlog. A few extra days here and there accumulates over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: International supply chains are fine-tuned for peak efficiency and can take time to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials change. While companies seek alternatives to help catch up, existing backlogs have made steady, if slow progress.
- Rise in Costs of Raw Materials: Metals like steel and copper are crucial for modern HVAC equipment. Valuable materials also include plastics and even finished electronics like microchips and semiconductors. These two components are especially scarce.
- Worker Shortage: As industries wind back up, they’re also facing a shortage of workers compared to the spike in demand. Professional HVAC technicians also take time to train to make sure they provide dependable, efficient services.
As you can imagine, all these issues have slowed the gears of the HVAC industry. As equipment takes longer to arrive, people may have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Luckily, you still have options for minimizing delays.
4 Ways to Reduce 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.
- Stay on top of routine maintenance: Services like routine air conditioning maintenance are one of the best investments you can make in your HVAC system. Components stay in better shape, which means more effective performance and a smaller risk of problems.
- Look for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown may leave you stuck waiting on a replacement. Listen for strange sounds and monitor your energy bill for signs your 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 existing supply chain issues, you’re more likely to receive your new equipment by the time you actually want it.
- Research alternative equipment: If a current make or model is struggling with a shortage, considering alternatives might open up other options. Thanks to modern technology, there are more choices for high-efficiency HVAC systems than ever.
Request a Free Quote for New HVAC Systems
The HVAC professionals at Pliescott HVAC Services LLC want to help lower 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 410-228-4822.