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 like 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 New Castle, it may be a good idea to order sooner rather than later.
Current shortages are a result of a few problems within the supply chain. We’ll review 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?
Common HVAC systems like furnaces and air conditioners are complex pieces of technology. Generally this is a great thing for homeowners, as this means more efficient heating and cooling. But recent disruptions in the supply chain impacts how quickly these systems can be produced and shipped. There are a few reasons why your new air conditioner or furnace is taking longer, including:
- COVID-19 Precautions: As people 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 designed for peak efficiency and can take a while to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials is affected. While companies seek alternatives to help catch up, existing backlogs have made steady, if slow progress.
- Higher Costs of Raw Materials: Metals such as steel and copper are crucial for efficient HVAC equipment. Key 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 require time to train to make sure they provide reliable, efficient services.
As you can imagine, all these issues 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. Fortunately, you still have options for reducing 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 things you can do 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 remain 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 might leave you stuck waiting on a replacement. Listen for strange sounds and monitor your energy bill for evidence the HVAC system is in trouble.
- Order in advance: If you were waiting to purchase 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.
- Explore alternative equipment: If a current make or model is struggling with a shortage, researching alternatives could 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 professionals at Central Heating & Plumbing 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 a head start. Request your free estimate today by giving us a call at 724-401-1843.