Anyone who’s ever had to wait for an order to show up understands it can be a frustrating experience. The wait is even more annoying when it’s a crucial piece of HVAC equipment like 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 a service like furnace installation in Muldrow, it may be a good idea to order now.
These shortages are a result of multiple problems within the supply chain. We’ll explore 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?
Common HVAC systems like furnaces and air conditioners are complex pieces of technology. Usually this is a great thing for homeowners, as this means more efficient heating and cooling. But recent problems in the supply chain impacts how quickly these systems can be manufactured and shipped. There are a few 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 other safety precautions have somewhat contributed to the backlog. A few extra days here and there 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 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 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 start back up, they’re also experiencing a shortage of workers in comparison to the spike in demand. Professional HVAC technicians also take time to train to ensure they provide reliable, efficient services.
As you can imagine, all these concerns have slowed 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 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 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 in your HVAC system. Components remain in better shape, which means more consistent performance and a lower risk of problems.
- Watch for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown can leave you stuck waiting on a replacement. Listen for strange sounds and keep an eye on 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 may 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 when you actually need it.
- Explore alternative equipment: If an existing make or model is facing a shortage, researching alternatives could open up more options. Thanks to modern technology, there are more options for high-efficiency HVAC systems than ever.
Request a Free Quote for New HVAC Systems
The HVAC professionals at Air Service Co. want to minimize 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 918-212-8943.