Anyone who’s ever had to wait for a delivery to arrive understands it can be a frustrating 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 arrive. If you’re considering upgrading your current system with a service like furnace installation in Wisconsin Rapids, it may be a good idea to order now.
Current shortages are a result of several 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?
Common HVAC systems like furnaces and air conditioners are complex pieces of technology. Normally this is better for homeowners, as this means more effective heating and cooling. But recent disruptions in the supply chain impacts how quickly these systems 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 workers continue to navigate COVID-19, taking sick days and additional safety precautions have somewhat contributed to the backlog. A few extra days here and there adds up over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: Global supply chains are fine-tuned for optimal 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.
- Higher Costs of Raw Materials: Metals such as steel and copper are crucial for efficient HVAC equipment. Key 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 experiencing 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 the gears of the HVAC industry. As products take longer to arrive, people could have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Luckily, 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 left without heat or air conditioning? Whatever your reasons are, there are ways to minimize how the HVAC product shortage affects you.
- Don’t ignore routine maintenance: Services including 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 efficient performance and a reduced risk of problems.
- Look for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown may leave you stuck waiting for a replacement. Listen for strange sounds and monitor your energy bill for evidence the 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 existing supply chain issues, you’re more likely to receive your new equipment when you actually need it.
- Consider alternative equipment: If an existing make or model is struggling with a shortage, researching alternatives might open up other 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 experts at Rapids Sheet Metal Works 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 715-301-0256.