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 arrive. If you’re considering upgrading your existing system with a service like furnace installation in the Rio Grande Valley, it may be a good idea to order now.
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. Usually this is a great thing for homeowners, as this means more efficient heating and cooling. But recent turmoil in the supply chain impacts how quickly these products can be produced and shipped. There are a few reasons why your new air conditioner or furnace is delayed, including:
- COVID-19 Precautions: As people continue to navigate COVID-19, taking sick days and additional safety precautions have gradually contributed to the backlog. A few extra days here and there accumulates over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: International supply chains are fine-tuned 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 have made steady, if slow progress.
- Rise in Costs of Raw Materials: Metals such as steel and copper are vital for quality 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 in comparison to the spike in demand. Professional HVAC technicians also require 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 may have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Fortunately, 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 impacts you.
- Stay on top of routine maintenance: Services including preventive 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 reduced risk of problems.
- Look for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown can leave you stuck waiting for a replacement. Listen for loud sounds and monitor your energy bill for evidence 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 good idea to go ahead and make the order. Even with existing supply chain issues, you’re more likely to receive your new equipment by the time you actually want it.
- Explore alternative equipment: If a current make or model is struggling with a shortage, researching alternatives could open up more 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 Cytech Heating & Cooling L.C. 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 956-630-3522.