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 crucial 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 be installed. If you’re considering upgrading your existing system with something like furnace installation in Hasbrouck Heights, 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 explain 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. Usually 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 a few reasons why your new air conditioner or furnace is delayed, like:
- COVID-19 Precautions: As workers continue to navigate COVID-19, taking sick days and additional safety precautions have gradually contributed to the backlog. A few extra days every now and then accumulates over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: Global supply chains are designed for peak efficiency and can take a while to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials change. While companies set up alternatives to help catch up, existing backlogs have made steady, if slow progress.
- Higher Costs of Raw Materials: Metals including steel and copper are invaluable for quality HVAC equipment. Valuable 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 experiencing a shortage of workers compared to the spike in demand. Professional HVAC technicians also take time to train to make sure they provide dependable, efficient services.
As you can imagine, all these issues have slowed the gears of the HVAC industry. As products take longer to arrive, people might have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Fortunately, you still have options for minimizing delays.
4 Ways to Reduce the Impact of HVAC Product Shortages
Are you actively looking for new HVAC equipment? Or do you just want to avoid being left without heat or air conditioning? Whatever your reasons are, there are things you can do to minimize how the HVAC product shortage impacts you.
- Don’t ignore 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 lower 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 evidence 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 better 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 struggling with a shortage, exploring alternatives can open up other options. Thanks to modern technology, there are more options for high-efficiency HVAC systems than ever.
Request a Free Quote for New HVAC Systems
The HVAC experts at ACE Solutions 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 started soon. Request your free estimate today by giving us a call at 201-579-2562.