Anyone who’s ever had to wait for an order to arrive understands it can be an irritating experience. The wait is even more annoying when it’s a central 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 show up. If you’re considering upgrading your existing system with a service like furnace installation in York, it may be a good idea to order sooner rather than later.
Current shortages are a result of several problems throughout 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 better for homeowners, as this means more convenient heating and cooling. But recent turmoil 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 taking longer, including:
- COVID-19 Precautions: As people continue to navigate COVID-19, taking sick days and additional safety precautions have gradually contributed to the backlog. A few extra days here and there adds up over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: Global supply chains are designed for optimal efficiency and can take a while to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials is affected. While companies seek alternatives to help catch up, existing backlogs have made steady, if slow progress.
- Rise in Costs of Raw Materials: Metals such as steel and copper are invaluable for efficient HVAC equipment. Key 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 facing a shortage of workers compared to the spike in demand. Professional HVAC technicians also take 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 could 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 affects you.
- Stay on top of routine maintenance: Services like preventive air conditioning maintenance are one of the best investments you can make for your HVAC system. Components remain in better shape, which means more consistent performance and a lower risk of problems.
- Look for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown can 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 order a new furnace or air conditioner, it might be a better idea to go ahead and make the order. Even with current supply chain issues, you’re 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, exploring alternatives might open up more options. Thanks to modern technology, there are more options for high-efficiency HVAC systems than before.
Request a Free Quote for New HVAC Systems
The HVAC experts at Strine's Heating & Air Conditioning 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 started soon. Request your free estimate today by giving us a call at 717-383-4479.