Anyone who’s ever had to wait for a delivery to arrive 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 Zelienople, it may be a good idea to order now.
These shortages are a result of multiple problems within the supply chain. We’ll review 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?
Popular HVAC systems like furnaces and air conditioners are complex pieces of technology. Normally this is a great thing for homeowners, as this means more convenient heating and cooling. But recent hiccups 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 taking longer, such as:
- COVID-19 Precautions: As people continue to navigate COVID-19, taking sick days and additional safety precautions have gradually contributed to the backlog. A couple extra days every now and then adds up over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: Global supply chains are fine-tuned for peak efficiency and may take a while to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials shift. 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. 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 facing a shortage of workers compared to the spike in demand. Professional HVAC technicians also require time to train to ensure 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 sometimes have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Fortunately, you still have options for minimizing delays.
4 Ways to Reduce 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 like preventive 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 smaller risk of problems.
- Keep an eye out for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown may leave you stuck waiting on a replacement. Listen for loud sounds and monitor your energy bill for evidence the HVAC system is in trouble.
- Order in advance: If you were waiting to order 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 need it.
- Consider alternative equipment: If a current make or model is struggling with a shortage, exploring alternatives can 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 pros at Knoechel Heating Company want to help reduce your wait times for a new furnace or air conditioner. If you’re thinking about 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 724-425-5852.