Anyone who’s ever had to wait for an order to arrive understands it can be an irritating experience. The wait is even more annoying when it’s a central 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 existing system with something like furnace installation in West Valley City, it may be a good idea to order sooner rather than later.
These shortages are a result of several problems within 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?
Popular HVAC systems like furnaces and air conditioners are complex pieces of technology. Normally this is a good thing for homeowners, as this means more efficient heating and cooling. But recent disruptions in the supply chain impacts how quickly these systems can be assembled and shipped. There are several 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 here and there accumulates over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: International supply chains are designed for optimal efficiency and may take a while 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 such as steel and copper are crucial for efficient 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 start 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 dependable, 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 might have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Luckily, you still have options for reducing 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 stay in better shape, which means more consistent performance and a lower risk of problems.
- Watch for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown can leave you stuck waiting for a replacement. Listen for loud 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 might be a good 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 an existing make or model is struggling with a shortage, considering alternatives may open up more 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 professionals at Select Comfort Systems Heating & Air Conditioning want to help reduce 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 801-305-4777.