Anyone who’s ever had to wait for a delivery to show up understands it can be an irritating experience. The wait is even more annoying when it’s a crucial piece of HVAC equipment such as a new furnace or air conditioner. With backlogs and supply shortages, many people are waiting weeks for their new HVAC system to show up. If you’re considering upgrading your existing system with a service like furnace installation in Kutztown and Breinigsville, it may be a good idea to order sooner rather than later.
Current shortages are a result of a few problems throughout the supply chain. We’ll explain 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?
Standard 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 products can be produced and shipped. There are a few reasons why your new air conditioner or furnace is taking longer, like:
- 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 every now and then adds up over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: Global supply chains are designed for peak 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.
- Rise in Costs of Raw Materials: Metals like steel and copper are invaluable for quality 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 start 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 sometimes 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 affects you.
- Don’t ignore routine maintenance: Services including 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 effective performance and a smaller risk of problems.
- Watch for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown may leave you stuck waiting for a replacement. Listen for strange sounds and monitor your energy bill for evidence your HVAC system is in trouble.
- Order in advance: If you were waiting to install a new furnace or air conditioner, it might 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 by the time you actually need it.
- Consider alternative equipment: If an existing make or model is facing a shortage, researching alternatives may open up additional 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 Moyer Total Indoor Comfort 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 started soon. Request your free estimate today by giving us a call at 484-646-3363.