Anyone who’s ever had to wait for an order to arrive understands it can be an aggravating experience. The wait is even more annoying when it’s a vital 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 arrive. If you’re considering upgrading your current system with something like furnace installation in Bishop, it may be a good idea to order sooner rather than later.
Current shortages are a result of multiple problems throughout 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. Usually 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 systems can be manufactured and shipped. There are several reasons why your new air conditioner or furnace is delayed, such as:
- COVID-19 Precautions: As workers continue to navigate COVID-19, taking sick days and other safety precautions have gradually contributed to the backlog. A few extra days here and there adds up 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 find alternatives to help catch up, existing backlogs continue to make steady, if slow progress.
- Higher Costs of Raw Materials: Metals like steel and copper are vital for modern HVAC equipment. Valuable 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 facing a shortage of workers in comparison to the spike in demand. Professional HVAC technicians also require time to train to make sure they provide dependable, 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 reducing 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 stuck without heat or air conditioning? Whatever your reasons are, there are things you can do to minimize how the HVAC product shortage affects you.
- Stay on top of 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 efficient performance and a smaller risk of problems.
- Watch for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown could leave you stuck waiting on a replacement. Listen for strange sounds and keep an eye on 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’ll be more likely to receive your new equipment when you actually want it.
- Research alternative equipment: If a current make or model is experiencing a shortage, researching alternatives could open up other 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 pros at Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning want to minimize 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 760-784-9034.