Anyone who’s ever had to wait for an order to show up 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 arrive. If you’re considering upgrading your existing system with a service like furnace installation in Pella, it may be a good idea to order sooner rather than later.
These shortages are a result of several problems along the supply chain. We’ll explore 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?
Popular HVAC systems like furnaces and air conditioners are complex pieces of technology. Generally this is better for homeowners, as this means more efficient heating and cooling. But recent problems in the supply chain impacts how quickly these systems can be produced and shipped. There are a few 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 somewhat contributed to the backlog. A few extra days every now and then adds up over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: Global supply chains are designed for peak efficiency and may take time to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials is affected. While companies find 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 quality 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 wind 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 ensure they provide reliable, efficient services.
As you can imagine, all these issues have slowed the gears of the HVAC industry. As products take longer to arrive, people might 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 looking 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 impacts 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 consistent performance and a smaller 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 unusual sounds and monitor your energy bill for signs the HVAC system is in trouble.
- Order in advance: If you were waiting to purchase 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 when you actually want it.
- Consider alternative equipment: If a current make or model is experiencing a shortage, researching alternatives could open up more options. Thanks to modern technology, there are more options for high-efficiency HVAC systems than ever.
Request a Free Quote for New HVAC Systems
The HVAC experts at Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating want to help reduce 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 641-628-3621.