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 central 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 be installed. If you’re considering upgrading your existing system with something like furnace installation in Omaha, it may be a good idea to order sooner rather than later.
These shortages are a result of a few problems along the supply chain. We’ll review how these issues have affected the HVAC industry as well as what you can do to avoid 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 hiccups in the supply chain impacts how quickly these products can be assembled and shipped. There are several reasons why your new air conditioner or furnace is taking longer, like:
- COVID-19 Precautions: As people continue to navigate COVID-19, taking sick days and additional safety precautions have gradually contributed to the backlog. A couple extra days every now and then adds up over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: International supply chains are designed for peak efficiency and may take a while to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials shift. While companies seek 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 invaluable 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 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 reliable, efficient services.
As you can imagine, all these different elements have slowed the gears of the HVAC industry. As products take longer to arrive, people may have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Fortunately, you still have options for reducing 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 things you can do to minimize how the HVAC product shortage impacts you.
- Don’t ignore routine maintenance: Services such as 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 lower risk of problems.
- Look for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown might leave you stuck waiting on a replacement. Listen for strange sounds and monitor your energy bill for evidence 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 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 need it.
- Research alternative equipment: If a current make or model is experiencing a shortage, considering alternatives may open up additional 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 pros at The Frazier Company 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 402-628-0206.