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 vital piece of HVAC equipment such as a new furnace or air conditioner. With backlogs and supply shortages, some people are waiting weeks for their new HVAC system to arrive. If you’re considering upgrading your current system with a service like furnace installation in West Jefferson, 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 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 convenient heating and cooling. But recent turmoil 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, 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 couple extra days every now and then adds up over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: Global supply chains are designed for optimal efficiency and can take time to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials change. While companies set up alternatives to help catch up, existing backlogs have made steady, if slow progress.
- Higher Costs of Raw Materials: Metals including steel and copper are vital 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 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 ensure they provide reliable, efficient services.
As you can imagine, all these concerns have slowed down the gears of the HVAC industry. As products take 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 ways to minimize how the HVAC product shortage affects you.
- Stay on top of routine maintenance: Services including preventive air conditioning maintenance are one of the best investments you can make in your HVAC system. Components stay in better shape, which means more efficient performance and a smaller risk of problems.
- Look for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown might leave you stuck waiting for a replacement. Listen for loud sounds and monitor your energy bill for evidence your HVAC system is in trouble.
- Order in advance: If you were waiting to order a new furnace or air conditioner, it may 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 experiencing a shortage, exploring alternatives could open up other 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 pros at West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. 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 a head start. Request your free estimate today by giving us a call at 614-879-9091.