Anyone who’s ever had to wait for a delivery to arrive 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, some people are waiting weeks for their new HVAC system to be installed. If you’re considering upgrading your current system with a service like furnace installation in Omaha, it may be a good idea to order now.
Current shortages are a result of multiple problems within 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?
Standard HVAC systems like furnaces and air conditioners are complex pieces of technology. Generally this is a good thing for homeowners, as this means more effective heating and cooling. But recent problems 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 taking longer, such as:
- COVID-19 Precautions: As people continue to navigate COVID-19, taking sick days and additional safety precautions have somewhat contributed to the backlog. A couple extra days here and there accumulates over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: International supply chains are designed for peak efficiency and may take time to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials shift. While companies set up alternatives to help catch up, existing backlogs continue to make steady, if slow progress.
- Higher Costs of Raw Materials: Metals including steel and copper are crucial 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 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 Reduce the Impact of HVAC Product Shortages
Are you actively searching for new HVAC equipment? Or do you just want to avoid being stuck 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 routine air conditioning maintenance are one of the best investments you can make in your HVAC system. Components remain in better shape, which means more efficient performance and a reduced risk of problems.
- Keep an eye out 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 signs your HVAC system is in trouble.
- Order in advance: If you were waiting to install 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’re more likely to receive your new equipment when you actually want it.
- Consider alternative equipment: If an existing make or model is struggling with a shortage, exploring alternatives might open up other 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 pros at Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning want to help lower 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 402-509-5940.