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 existing system with something like furnace installation in Ballwin and St. Charles, it may be a good idea to order sooner rather than later.
These shortages are a result of multiple problems within 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?
Common HVAC systems like furnaces and air conditioners are complex pieces of technology. Normally this is a great thing for homeowners, as this means more convenient heating and cooling. But recent disruptions 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 taking longer, such as:
- COVID-19 Precautions: As people continue to navigate COVID-19, taking sick days and additional 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 fine-tuned for peak efficiency and can take time to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials shift. While companies set up alternatives to help catch up, existing backlogs continue to make steady, if slow progress.
- Rise in Costs of Raw Materials: Metals including steel and copper are crucial 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 in comparison to the spike in demand. Professional HVAC technicians also require time to train to ensure they provide dependable, efficient services.
As you can imagine, all these issues have slowed the gears of the HVAC industry. As equipment takes longer to arrive, people could have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Luckily, you still have options for minimizing 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 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 efficient 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 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 need it.
- Research alternative equipment: If an existing make or model is experiencing a shortage, researching 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 Air Alliance Team 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 636-206-4250.