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 vital 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 something like furnace installation in Manassas, it may be a good idea to order sooner rather than later.
These 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?
Standard HVAC systems like furnaces and air conditioners are complex pieces of technology. Normally this is a good thing for homeowners, as this means more convenient heating and cooling. But recent turmoil in the supply chain impacts how quickly these products 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 additional safety precautions have somewhat 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 time to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials shift. 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 invaluable for quality HVAC equipment. Important 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 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 different elements have slowed down the gears of the HVAC industry. As equipment takes longer to arrive, people might have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Thankfully, 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 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 such as preventive air conditioning maintenance are one of the best investments you can make in your HVAC system. Components remain in better shape, which means more consistent performance and a lower risk of problems.
- Look for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown could leave you stuck waiting on a replacement. Listen for loud 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 by the time you actually want it.
- Explore alternative equipment: If an existing make or model is facing a shortage, exploring alternatives may 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 professionals at Woody's Sudden Service Inc 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 703-278-2036.