Anyone who’s ever had to wait for an order to arrive understands it can be a frustrating experience. The wait is even more annoying when it’s a vital 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 current system with a service like furnace installation in Temple/Belton, it may be a good idea to order now.
Current shortages are a result of a few 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. Usually this is better for homeowners, as this means more efficient heating and cooling. But recent disruptions in the supply chain impacts how quickly these products can be manufactured and shipped. There are a few reasons why your new air conditioner or furnace is delayed, including:
- COVID-19 Precautions: As workers 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 accumulates over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: International supply chains are designed for peak efficiency and may take time to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials shift. While companies find alternatives to help catch up, existing backlogs continue to make steady, if slow progress.
- Rise in Costs of Raw Materials: Metals like steel and copper are vital for modern 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 facing a shortage of workers compared to the spike in demand. Professional HVAC technicians also require time to train to make sure they provide dependable, 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 might have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Fortunately, 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 stuck 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 in your HVAC system. Components stay in better shape, which means more effective performance and a reduced risk of problems.
- Keep an eye out for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown might leave you stuck waiting on a replacement. Listen for unusual sounds and keep an eye on 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 may be a better idea to go ahead and make the order. Even with existing supply chain issues, you’re more likely to receive your new equipment by the time you actually need it.
- Consider alternative equipment: If a current make or model is struggling with a shortage, exploring alternatives could open up more 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 experts at Bell Air Conditioning Inc want to minimize 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 254-307-9572.