Anyone who’s ever had to wait for a delivery to arrive understands it can be an aggravating 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 show up. If you’re considering upgrading your current system with something like furnace installation in Siloam Springs, 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 review 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?
Standard HVAC systems like furnaces and air conditioners are complex pieces of technology. Generally this is a good thing for homeowners, as this means more convenient heating and cooling. But recent hiccups in the supply chain impacts how quickly these systems can be manufactured and shipped. There are several 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 somewhat contributed to the backlog. A few extra days here and there adds up 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 change. While companies set up alternatives to help catch up, existing backlogs continue to make steady, if slow progress.
- Higher Costs of Raw Materials: Metals including steel and copper are invaluable 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 facing 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 issues have slowed down the gears of the HVAC industry. As products take longer to arrive, people might have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Luckily, you still have options for minimizing 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 things you can do to minimize how the HVAC product shortage impacts you.
- Don’t ignore routine maintenance: Services including preventive air conditioning maintenance are one of the best investments you can make for your HVAC system. Components remain in better shape, which means more effective performance and a reduced risk of problems.
- Keep an eye out for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown might leave you stuck waiting on a replacement. Listen for loud sounds and keep an eye on 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 might be a better 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 struggling with a shortage, researching alternatives might 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 pros at Siloam Springs Heating & AC 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 479-308-8176.