Anyone who’s ever had to wait for a delivery 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 like a new furnace or air conditioner. With backlogs and supply shortages, some 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 Lincoln, 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 review 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?
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 assembled and shipped. There are a few reasons why your new air conditioner or furnace is taking longer, including:
- COVID-19 Precautions: As people continue to navigate COVID-19, taking sick days and other safety precautions have somewhat contributed to the backlog. A couple extra days here and there accumulates over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: International supply chains are fine-tuned for optimal efficiency and can take time to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials shift. While companies find alternatives to help catch up, existing backlogs continue to make steady, if slow progress.
- Rise in Costs of Raw Materials: Metals including steel and copper are vital for efficient 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 wind 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 ensure 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 could 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 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 such as 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 effective performance and a reduced risk of problems.
- Look for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown can leave you stuck waiting on a replacement. Listen for strange sounds and monitor 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 may open up more options. Thanks to modern technology, there are more choices for high-efficiency HVAC systems than ever.
Request a Free Quote for New HVAC Systems
The HVAC experts at AW Heating & Air Conditioning want to minimize 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 started soon. Request your free estimate today by giving us a call at 402-438-7992.