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 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 show up. If you’re considering upgrading your current system with a service like furnace installation in Cape Coral, it may be a good idea to order now.
These shortages are a result of multiple problems throughout the supply chain. We’ll explain how these issues have affected the HVAC industry as well as what you can do to reduce 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 convenient heating and cooling. But recent problems in the supply chain impacts how quickly these products can be produced 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 somewhat contributed to the backlog. A few extra days here and there accumulates over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: Global supply chains are fine-tuned for optimal efficiency and can take time 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 including steel and copper are crucial for modern HVAC equipment. Valuable 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 reliable, efficient services.
As you can imagine, all these concerns have slowed down the gears of the HVAC industry. As equipment takes longer to arrive, people sometimes have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Fortunately, you still have options for minimizing delays.
4 Ways to Minimize 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 ways to minimize how the HVAC product shortage impacts you.
- Don’t ignore routine maintenance: Services like routine air conditioning maintenance are one of the best investments you can make for your HVAC system. Components remain in better shape, which means more efficient performance and a smaller risk of problems.
- Watch for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown may leave you stuck waiting on a replacement. Listen for loud sounds and monitor your energy bill for signs your HVAC system is in trouble.
- Order in advance: If you were waiting to purchase a new furnace or air conditioner, it may 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.
- Explore alternative equipment: If a current make or model is experiencing a shortage, researching alternatives may open up more 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 experts at Comfort Zone, LLC 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 239-214-0411.