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 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 current system with something like furnace installation in Franklin Lakes, it may be a good idea to order now.
These shortages are a result of a few problems throughout 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 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 assembled and shipped. There are several 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 other safety precautions have somewhat contributed to the backlog. A couple extra days every now and then accumulates over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: International supply chains are designed for peak efficiency and may take a while 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 invaluable for quality HVAC equipment. Key materials also include plastics and even finished electronics like microchips and semiconductors. These two components are especially scarce.
- Worker Shortage: As industries wind 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 dependable, 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 sometimes have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Thankfully, 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 stuck without heat or air conditioning? Whatever your reasons are, there are ways to minimize how the HVAC product shortage impacts you.
- Stay on top of routine maintenance: Services including routine air conditioning maintenance are one of the best investments you can make in your HVAC system. Components stay in better shape, which means more consistent performance and a lower 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 signs the HVAC system is in trouble.
- Order in advance: If you were waiting to purchase 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’ll be more likely to receive your new equipment when you actually want it.
- Research alternative equipment: If a current make or model is experiencing a shortage, considering alternatives could open up other 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 pros at Total Comfort want to help reduce 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 201-268-5663.