Anyone who’s ever had to wait for an order to arrive understands it can be an aggravating experience. The wait is even more annoying when it’s a crucial 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 arrive. If you’re considering upgrading your existing system with something like furnace installation in Eastland, it may be a good idea to order sooner rather than later.
Current shortages are a result of several problems along the supply chain. We’ll explore how these issues have affected the HVAC industry as well as what you can do to minimize 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 effective heating and cooling. But recent turmoil 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 peak efficiency and can take time to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials change. While companies find alternatives to help catch up, existing backlogs have made steady, if slow progress.
- Higher Costs of Raw Materials: Metals like steel and copper are vital 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 experiencing a shortage of workers compared 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 different elements have slowed down the gears of the HVAC industry. As products take longer to arrive, people could have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Luckily, you still have options for minimizing delays.
4 Ways to Lower the Impact of HVAC Product Shortages
Are you actively looking for new HVAC equipment? Or do you just want to avoid being stuck without heat or air conditioning? Whatever your reasons are, there are ways to minimize how the HVAC product shortage affects you.
- Don’t ignore 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 smaller risk of problems.
- Watch for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown may leave you stuck waiting on a replacement. Listen for loud sounds and keep an eye on 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 may be a good idea to go ahead and make the order. Even with current supply chain issues, you’ll be more likely to receive your new equipment when you actually want it.
- Research alternative equipment: If an existing make or model is struggling with a shortage, considering alternatives might open up more options. Thanks to modern technology, there are more choices for high-efficiency HVAC systems than before.
Request a Free Quote for New HVAC Systems
The HVAC experts at J & J Air Conditioning 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 254-355-3833.