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 central 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 be installed. If you’re considering upgrading your existing system with a service like furnace installation in Columbus, it may be a good idea to order sooner rather than later.
Current shortages are a result of multiple problems along 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?
Standard HVAC systems like furnaces and air conditioners are complex pieces of technology. Usually this is a good thing for homeowners, as this means more effective heating and cooling. But recent problems in the supply chain impacts how quickly these products can be manufactured and shipped. There are several reasons why your new air conditioner or furnace is delayed, including:
- 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 here and there adds up over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: Global supply chains are designed for optimal efficiency and may take time to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials change. While companies find alternatives to help catch up, existing backlogs continue to make steady, if slow progress.
- Higher Costs of Raw Materials: Metals including steel and copper are invaluable for modern HVAC equipment. Key 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 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 equipment takes longer to arrive, people might 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 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 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 effective 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 loud sounds and keep an eye on your energy bill for signs 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 better idea to go ahead and make the order. Even with existing supply chain issues, you’ll be more likely to receive your new equipment by the time you actually want it.
- Consider alternative equipment: If an existing make or model is facing a shortage, researching alternatives may 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 experts at Wolfe & Sons Heating and Cooling want to help lower 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 614-451-0846.