Anyone who’s ever had to wait for an order to show up understands it can be an irritating experience. The wait is even more annoying when it’s a vital 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 be installed. If you’re considering upgrading your current system with a service like furnace installation in Sandpoint, it may be a good idea to order sooner rather than later.
Current shortages are a result of a few problems along the supply chain. We’ll explore 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 effective heating and cooling. But recent disruptions in the supply chain impacts how quickly these systems can be produced and shipped. There are a few 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 somewhat contributed to the backlog. A couple extra days here and there accumulates over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: Global supply chains are fine-tuned for optimal efficiency and can take a while to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials change. 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 vital for efficient HVAC equipment. Important 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 take time to train to ensure they provide reliable, efficient services.
As you can imagine, all these concerns have slowed the gears of the HVAC industry. As products take longer to arrive, people may 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.
- Stay on top of routine maintenance: Services such as 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 efficient performance and a smaller risk of problems.
- Keep an eye out 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 signs 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’ll be more likely to receive your new equipment by the time you actually want it.
- Explore alternative equipment: If an existing make or model is experiencing a shortage, researching alternatives might open up additional options. Thanks to modern technology, there are more choices for high-efficiency HVAC systems than ever.
Request a Free Quote for New HVAC Systems
The HVAC professionals at Age Heating & Cooling 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 208-578-4258.