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 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 arrive. If you’re considering upgrading your current system with a service like furnace installation in Greater Richmond, it may be a good idea to order sooner rather than later.
These shortages are a result of a few problems within the supply chain. We’ll review 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 better for homeowners, as this means more convenient heating and cooling. But recent disruptions in the supply chain impacts how quickly these products can be produced and shipped. There are several reasons why your new air conditioner or furnace is delayed, like:
- COVID-19 Precautions: As people continue to navigate COVID-19, taking sick days and other safety precautions have gradually contributed to the backlog. A couple 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 change. While companies find alternatives to help catch up, existing backlogs continue to make steady, if slow progress.
- Higher Costs of Raw Materials: Metals such as steel and copper are invaluable for efficient HVAC equipment. Valuable 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 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. Luckily, 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 left 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 such as preventive 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 reduced risk of problems.
- Keep an eye out for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown might leave you stuck waiting for a replacement. Listen for loud 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 order a new furnace or air conditioner, it might be a better idea to go ahead and make the order. Even with existing supply chain issues, you’ll be more likely to receive your new equipment by the time you actually want it.
- Consider alternative equipment: If a current make or model is facing a shortage, considering alternatives may 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 Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling 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 804-302-6657.